News

19/07/2009

Mustard as biofumigation crop for fruit

Bright Seeds is urging fruit growers to take advantage of its biofumigation crop.

Energy Mustard is the ideal break crop which has biofumigation properties and the ability to suppress nematodes and control weeds.

David Bright, Managing Director of Bright Seeds explained: "Energy Mustard has proved to be an effective alternative to synthetic inorganic chemicals. Best used as a break crop to control soil-borne pests and diseases it also produces a valuable green manure."

The field trials - which took place at Bright Seeds own site in Wiltshire - also concluded that the use of Energy Mustard improves soil structure, water holding capacity and minimises erosion. The trial plot was ploughed and power harrowed, with one half seeded by broadcasting the mixture of biofumigation mustard at 6kg per acre. After approximately 10 weeks of growth when the mixture had flowered, the area was topped and thoroughly mulched to break up the plant fibres. Immediately after topping, both areas were ploughed and power harrowed once again. The results were outstanding with a 40% reduction in weed growth on the treated plot.

David concluded: "By improving the soil's physical, chemical and biological health and structure, Energy Mustard is the perfect crop for fruit growers. Combining the benefits of weed suppression and the tilling of fresh plant material into the soil, crops of fruits and salads can be greatly improved."

Energy Mustard can also be used in the production of potatoes, beans, lettuce, onions, peas, carrots and wheat.

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