Lincolnshire-based Boston seeds has introduced a green manure product onto the UK market that can be used as both a natural fumigant and soil conditioner. Named Vittasso brown mustard, the product is already popular in the US and some parts of Europe. It works as a biofumigant – meaning that it contains volatile, plant- derived chemicals that can suppress soil-borne pathogens, nematodes, insects and weeds – on potato, soft fruit and salad crops. The plant is grown as a crop and then ploughed into the ground where it breaks down and releases isothiocyanates into the soil. These isothiocyanates work in a similar way to other chemical fumigants, such as methyl bromide.
According to Boston Seeds, the product is best used as a green manure, potato disease suppressant or organic catch crop. Boston seeds representative Andrew Wallis said: “We are just beginning to advise the wider industry through contractors, packers and agronomists about the natural benefits of biofumigation. Initial response is very positive and I expect to see Vittasso being used extensively – especially by potato growers and organic farmers.”
Source: Horticulture Week
Editor GPSN: Further information on brown mustard can be found online on this page.
Filed under: Crop Nutrition, Crop Protection, Crop Rotation, In the News, Pests and Diseases
