Improved soil fumigation by Telone C35 using carbonation.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Soil Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Soil fumigation is crucial for pest and pathogen control in agriculture.
• Reducing fumigant emissions is vital for worker safety and environmental health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate if carbonating Telone C35 with CO(2) enhances fumigant delivery and allows for reduced application rates without compromising efficacy.
• To compare the efficacy and emission profiles of CO(2)-carbonated Telone C35 against nitrogen gas (N(2)) pressurized Telone C35.

Main Methods:

• A field trial in Florida utilized a complete block design with three replications.
• Telone C35 was applied using CO(2) and N(2) pressurization for comparison.
• Efficacy was assessed through weed enumeration and root-knot nematode galling index.

Main Results:

• CO(2) pressurization led to quicker and deeper initial distribution of Telone C35 components compared to N(2).
• While CO(2) enhanced initial distribution, it did not significantly alter the disappearance rate of the active ingredients.
• Despite faster volatilization from CO(2) beds, cumulative emissions at a reduced rate were lower than full-rate N(2) application.
• The efficacy of CO(2)-carbonated Telone C35 at a reduced rate was statistically equivalent to higher-rate N(2) application.

Conclusions:

• Carbonating Telone C35 with CO(2) offers a viable strategy for reducing application rates while maintaining pest and pathogen control efficacy.
• This method shows potential for decreasing fumigant emissions, contributing to improved worker safety and environmental protection.