Solarization in the open field has the advantage of direct exposure to solar irradiation with no interference. On the other hand, technical difficulties, such as improper and poorly timed mulch application, maintaining film integrity under harsh conditions for several weeks, and removal of the film, cause difficulties for the commercial implementation of solarization under open-field conditions. The inability to fallow the field during periods that are favorable for solarization also limits its use. Development of open-field solarization should, therefore, focus on three main objectives. Better mulching technologies, including improved films and polymers, which will facilitate and improve combinations with other methods to enhance and shorten the time needed for pest control. Commercial technologies for the application of integrated pest management, such as combination with fumigants, organic amendments, or beneficial microorganisms, for improved control of a wide array of pathogens. Effective technologies for plastic removal and disposal. Meeting these challenges, together with the adoption of strategies for integrated pest management, will certainly promote the adoption of solarization for large-scale application in the open field.
Chapter 19
Solarization in the open field has the advantage of direct exposure to solar irradiation with no interference. On the other hand, technical difficulties, such as improper and poorly timed mulch application, maintaining film integrity under harsh conditions for several weeks, and removal of the film, cause difficulties for the commercial implementation of solarization under open-field conditions. The inability to fallow the field during periods that are favorable for solarization also limits its use. Development of open-field solarization should, therefore, focus on three main objectives. Better mulching technologies, including improved films and polymers, which will facilitate and improve combinations with other methods to enhance and shorten the time needed for pest control. Commercial technologies for the application of integrated pest management, such as combination with fumigants, organic amendments, or beneficial microorganisms, for improved control of a wide array of pathogens. Effective technologies for plastic removal and disposal. Meeting these challenges, together with the adoption of strategies for integrated pest management, will certainly promote the adoption of solarization for large-scale application in the open field.
Chapter 19