Non-Chemical Alternatives

Reduced Use of Methyl Bromide

 In order to reduce emissions of methyl bromide into the atmosphere several alternatives

 are being studied. One possible alternative could be reduction of the crop bed size: from 32 to

 36 inches in width to 24 inches in width. The result is less chemical required to treat the bed

 area. Preliminary studies have shown a 33% reduction in use of methyl bromide using this

 method. Another alternative is to increase the amount of chloropicrin as a percent of the total

 formulation so that less methyl bromide is used. Finally, the use of thicker or impermeable

 plastics for bed covers can reduce the loss of methyl bromide by as much as 75%.


 Constructed Barriers

 Studies are currently in progress to evaluate the use of a barrier-type construction to

protect plants from nematodes. A sleeve inserted into the ground surrounding the plant can

provide a barrier against nematodes migrating into the root zone. However, a study examining

this method found that nematodes moved vertically into the rootzone from below, casting doubt

on its viability for controlling nematodes. Further research is being done using a V shaped

barrier to examine movement of nematodes into the root zone.


Crop Rotation

 Crop rotation can be defined as "diversifying crops over time" and can be useful in

reducing the incidence of pests such as nematodes, pathogens and weeds. This method is

considered a viable alternative, depending on the pests and situation at the time of consideration.

For example, biological requirements of the pests and agronomic and economic implications may