Sunflower Husk for Soil Health and Lettuce Growth

Date:11 July 2022

Country: Spain

Application

• Soil Biodisinfestation: Sunflower seed husk can be used as an organic amendment for controlling soilborne pathogens like root-knot nematodes, enhancing soil health.
• Fertility Improvement: It improves soil fertility by increasing microbial activity and nutrient content, benefiting crop growth, particularly in lettuce cultivation.

Description

This project investigates the use of sunflower seed husk (SSH) as an organic amendment in soil biodisinfestation treatments to control root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) in lettuce crops. SSH, combined with cow manure and other by-products, was tested for its effects on pathogen control, soil fertility, and microbial activity. The study, conducted in a greenhouse in the Basque Country, demonstrated that SSH improves soil quality and disease management in humid temperate climates. Different C/N ratios of the mixtures were assessed for their efficacy in enhancing biodisinfestation and soil health.

Pathway Description:

The process used in this project involves biodisinfestation treatments, where organic amendments like sunflower seed husk, cow manure, and other by-products are incorporated into the soil. These amendments are combined to improve soil fertility and control root-knot nematodes. The soil is then covered with a transparent plastic film to enhance microbial activity and pathogen suppression. The treatment effectiveness is assessed by monitoring crop health, nematode population, and soil microbiological and physicochemical changes.