Solarization of greenhouses for the eradication of pests in heat-tolerant crops

C.J. Sluis, K.T. O’Neal, D.R. Oellerich
The ‘greenhouse effect’ is a term used for the conversion of radiant heat from the sun to internal thermal energy which is trapped by the structure of the greenhouse walls and roof. On sunny days, when ambient outdoor air temperatures reach a minimum of 65°F by 11 AM, and the greenhouse cooling system has been overridden or turned off, greenhouses with clear roof coverings can rapidly reach over 100ᵒF. Historically, this has been a negative event for growers when they are unable to control cooling the greenhouse. However, under controlled conditions heat shock can be a very useful tool for pest management. This heat buildup can be used to reduce pest populations, such as insects and microbes, using a ‘heat shock’ strategy whereby the temperature in the greenhouse is allowed to reach a level of 105-115°F air temperature and 95°F soil temperature, for a controlled period of time, such as 4 h. Not all plants can tolerate this level of heat. However, when heat-tolerant species, such as ones grown in zones 8-9, as well as some species not known to be generally heat tolerant, are properly hydrated prior to treatment, this method can be very effective in rapidly and dramatically reducing the populations of many plant pests, including their eggs and larval stages. This list includes most common greenhouse insect pests: aphids, thrips, white fly, fungus gnats as well as botrytis and fusarium. Notably, the list does not include two-spotted mites, which thrive on heat. Heat shock treatment costs nothing. It does not have any requirements for reentry posting. It can be done as often as the weather permits. It can be used in between crop cycles. Efficacy can be assessed immediately.
Sluis, C.J., O’Neal, K.T. and Oellerich, D.R. (2024). Solarization of greenhouses for the eradication of pests in heat-tolerant crops. Acta Hortic. 1406, 385-390
DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2024.1406.54
https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2024.1406.54
greenhouse management, temperature managed solarization, disinfestation, insects, liverwort, moss, soil, climate, ipm, ultraviolet, infrared, sunlight, PRIVA
English

Acta Horticulturae