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What is Steam Treatment?

Steam treatment involves the application of steam at high temperatures to growing substrates such as soil, pumice stone, peat, perlite or coconut coir. This process effectively kills pathogens, pests, nematodes and weed seeds, ensuring a healthier environment for plant roots. It is an old and proven method and is used in The Netherlands for more than 70 years!

Difference between sterilization and pasteurization

Sterilization and pasteurization are both heat treatments but they differ in intensity and purpose:

• Sterilization involves applying higher temperatures for a longer time to kill all microorganisms, including tough spores. The growing material is free from any harmful pests, fungi, bacteria, and viruses.
• Pasteurization uses lower temperatures for a shorter duration, aiming to reduce microbial activity without completely eliminating all microorganisms. It is often used when some beneficial microbes need to be preserved while still controlling harmful ones.

See also: Lethal temperatures for pathogens

Advantages of Steam Treatment

1. Effective Sterilization:
   By steam application the soil/coir material reaches temperatures of 80-95°C, which is sufficient to eliminate harmful organisms and weeds without the use of chemicals.
2. Environmental Safety:
   Unlike chemical treatments, steam sterilization is eco-friendly and reduces the risk of chemical residues in the crop as well as in the growing environment.
3. Improved Plant Health:
   By reducing disease incidence, steam-treated soil / coir material promote better root development and overall vigor of plant growth.
4. Cost-Effective:
   While initial setup costs may be higher, steam treatment can lead to long-term savings by reducing crop loss and improving yields and there is no delay in replanting. Replanting or sowing can be done directly after steam treatment.