Alternatives to Methyl Bromide

For many years, methyl bromide has been the primary soil fumigant used in strawberry plasticulture. Methyl bromide is effective in preparing the soil for planting by destroying pathogens and pests that could make it difficult for a strawberry planting to become established. However, methyl bromide is an ozone depleting chemical, and for this reason is being banned. The use of methyl bromide is being cut back each year until 2005. At that time methyl bromide will no longer be available.

This is why we are conducting studies on Alternatives to Methyl Bromide. We are looking at both chemical and non-chemical alternatives that will allow farmers to have productive and healthy strawberry crops.