How To Solarize Garden Beds To Eliminate Garden Pests In The Soil

By: Nikki Phipps

A great way to eliminate garden pests in the soil, as well as weeds, is by using soil temperature gardening techniques, also known as solarization. This unique method uses heat energy from the sun to reduce the effects of soilborne diseases, pests and other soil problems. Solarization works well in all types of gardens, from vegetables to flowers and herbs. It can also be utilized in raised garden beds.

Soil Temperature Gardening

Soil temperature gardening involves the placement of thin, clear plastic over the soil, with its edges buried within an outer trench. Large rolls of plastic can be obtained at most home and garden centers. Plastic uses the sun’s heat to raise soil temperatures. In fact, when properly done, the soil can reach temperatures up to 120 degrees or more. These high temperatures easily wipe out many soilborne diseases and other garden pests in the soil.

It is important, however, that only clear plastic be used to solarize garden areas. Clear plastic allows sunlight to pass through more easily, which is vital for soil heat retention. Black plastic does not sufficiently heat the soil. Thin plastic (about 1-2 mil.) also yields better results, as sunlight is able to penetrate the plastic more easily. Solarization is most effective during the summer months when the soil receives the maximum amount of sunlight.

How to Solarize Garden Beds

To solarize garden beds, the garden area should be level and free from any debris. Generally, the area is tilled and raked smooth before placing any plastic down. For better soil heat retention, the soil should be moist but not saturated. Moisture helps heat penetrate the ground easier. Most soil problems are also more susceptible to solarization when the ground is moist.

Before laying any plastic, a trench should to be incorporated around the outer edges of the garden. The depth can be anywhere from 8-12 inches and about a foot wide in order to secure the plastic in place. Once the trench has been dug out and the garden area raked smooth, the plastic is ready to be placed. Cover the entire garden area with the plastic, placing the edges into the trench and backfilling with the excavated soil.

Be sure to keep the plastic pulled tight as you go. The closer the plastic fits against the soil, the fewer air pockets will be present, allowing the soil to retain more heat. Once you have finished laying the plastic, it should be left in place for about 4-6 weeks.

Solarization enables soil heat retention, which in effect, not only helps eliminate most soil problems but also stimulates the release of nutrients presently found within the soil. Soil temperature gardening, or solarization, is one of the most effective methods of controlling garden pests in the soil and other related soil problems.