Effect of Soil Solarization on Viability of Sclerotia of Sclerotinia minor and Weed Seed Germination

Abstract

Effect of soil solarization on viability of sclerotia of Sclerotinia minor and weed seed germination was investigated to evaluate its potential as an eco-friendly soil disinfestation technique. Field and controlled experiments were conducted using transparent polyethylene mulching to enhance soil temperature and solar radiation penetration during peak summer conditions. Soil samples were analyzed for temperature profiles, sclerotial viability, and weed seed germination before and after solarization treatments. Results indicated that soil solarization significantly increased soil temperature at different depths, creating lethal thermal conditions that reduced viability of S. minor sclerotia. Prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures resulted in structural damage and loss of germination potential of sclerotia, thereby reducing inoculum density in the soil. In addition, soil solarization markedly suppressed weed seed germination by inducing thermal stress and disrupting dormancy mechanisms. Weed seedling emergence was significantly lower in solarized plots compared to non-solarized controls, with greater suppression observed for shallow soil layers where temperature rise was highest. The study highlights the dual benefits of soil solarization in reducing both soilborne pathogen survival and weed infestation. These findings support its integration into sustainable disease and weed management programs, particularly in regions with high solar radiation and warm climatic conditions.