Performance characteristics of partial sterilization of soil by steam applied from the surface and by buried pipes

Abstract

An investigation into the performance characteristics of two basically different methods of partial sterilization of soil is described. When steam was applied to the cultivated soil surface beneath a sheet weighted down at its edges with and without a net staked over it, the heat penetration downwards was limited by the depth of cultivation, and the general soil condition appeared to be quite critical. Because of variations in these factors, no difference was observed between an unnetted and a netted sheet. When the steam was applied below the soil surface from perforated pipes buried as the soil was dug and from clay tile drains previously buried and which were intended to remain in position for several years, it was found that all the soil within a band of 2½–3 ft width above the buried pipes was heated.