Biofumigation

Technical articles

Biofumigation is an agricultural technique that involves incorporating certain cultivated plants, mainly crucifers such as mustard, into the soil to combat various harmful organisms such as nematodes, soil diseases, and weed seeds. This method is part of an integrated crop management approach and offers an ecological alternative to chemical fumigants.

See also the article on allelopathy.

Principle

The principle of biofumigation is based on the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the decomposition of plants incorporated into the soil. These VOCs, mainly isothiocyanates derived from the breakdown of glucosinolates present in crucifers, have biocidal properties.

Implementation

The implementation of biofumigation includes several key steps:

1. Choice of biofumigant plant: selection of species rich in glucosinolates, such as .
2. Cultivation: sowing and adequate fertilization, especially with nitrogen and sulfur.
3. Grinding: the plant is finely chopped at the flowering stage.
4. Incorporation: residues are immediately incorporated into the arable layer.
5. Soil sealing: by compaction or use of plastic mulch to retain gases.
6. Irrigation: maintaining sufficient moisture to promote decomposition.

Advantages

Biofumigation presents several advantages:

• Reduction of soil disease and pests pressure
• Improvement of soil structure and soil fertility
• Stimulation of beneficial microbial activity
• Alternative to chemical pesticides
• Contribution to agroecological transition

Limits and considerations

Despite its benefits, biofumigation has some limitations:

• Need for precise implementation to ensure effectiveness
• Requirement of a sufficient intercrop period
• Possible impact on the following crop if incorporation is too recent
• Variable effectiveness depending on conditions and targeted pathogens

Applications

Biofumigation is used in various crops, notably:

• Market gardening: carrots, potatoes
• Field crops: cereals, legumes
• Arboriculture and viticulture

In conclusion, biofumigation represents a promising technique for more sustainable agriculture, integrating into a comprehensive crop management approach. Its growing adoption reflects farmers’ interest in alternative plant protection methods, although further research is needed to optimize its effectiveness in different agricultural contexts.

References

• Biofumigation: Dictionary of Agroecology
• Biofumigation - Agrobonsens
• https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/10/pdf/Agriculture/MoutardeCultiveeBiofumigation.pdf