5 benefits of UV-C disinfection in horticulture

Added on 04 October 2023

Benefits:

1. Increased sustainability & cost savings: By disinfecting and reusing drain water, growers can not only reduce waste, but they can also save on water costs and reduce the amount of fertilizer that needs to be added to the irrigation water. This is because the nutrients already present in the drain water can be reused by the plants, resulting in a more efficient use of fertilizer. This can result in reduction of expenses and a more sustainable way of growing crops.
2. Improved plant health: Disinfecting drain water with UV-C light not only helps to prevent the spread of viruses such as ToBRFV, and other pathogens, but it also eliminates harmful microorganisms that can affect plant health. This can lead to better yields, improved quality of produce, and overall healthier plants.
3. Protection against other pathogens: UV-C disinfection can also protect against other plant pathogens that can be present in drain water, such as Phytophthora and Pythium. This can prevent disease outbreaks and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
4. Compliance with regulations: Many regions have regulations in place that require growers to treat and disinfect drain water before it is discharged into the environment. By using UV-C disinfection, growers can comply with these regulations and avoid stiff penalties.
5. Easy to integrate into existing systems: UV-C disinfection systems can be easily integrated into existing drainage systems, without the need for major modifications or disruptions to operations. This makes it a convenient and practical solution for growers.