Abstract :
The term ‘biofumigation’ was originally coined by J.A. Kirkegaard to describe the process of growing, macerating / incorporating certain Brassica or related species into the soil, leading to the release of isothiocyanate compounds (ITCs) through the hydrolysis of glucosinolate (GSL) compounds contained in the plant tissues (Kirkegaard et al., 1993). This can result in a suppressive effect on a range of soil borne pests and diseases. Biofumigation is the suppression of soil born pests and diseases through the use of plants that produce inhibitory chemicals, also known as secondary metabolites. In most cases these biofumigant plants are chopped and incorporated into the soil so they can release their inhibitory chemicals.
Keyword :
Biofumigation, soil-borne diseases