Effectiveness of Steam Treatment

Steam treatment using the conditions described in this article (50°C for at least 30 minute at 30 cm depth) was effective in removing viable inoculum of Phytophthora species from soils. Much less time was required for pots as the temperatures rose above 50°C quickly, and reached temperatures greater than 90°C. On the average, pot pile temperatures above 50°C for 2 hrs resulted in complete elimination of Phytophthora spp. from residual soil and media in pots.

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