CONTROL OF ALGAE IN HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS

Observations on algae that occur in hydroponic culture learns that optimum growing conditions for hydroponic plants are also optimum for the growth of algae.
It is not surprising that algae pose serious problems from a culture-technical viewpoint (obstructions), from a cultural viewpoint (nutritional competition) as well as from an economic viewpoint (smell and the appearance of crops). The objective of this presentation is to describe experiments to control algae in hydroponic culture of corn salad.

The agents tested for their algicidal characteristics belongs to the groups of fungicides, insecticides as well as algicides.
The pesticides belonging to the group of insecticides (endosulfan and diazinon) were little phytotoxic but also displayed poor algicidal properties.
From the group of the fungicides, propiconazole and thiram appeared to be too phytotoxic at concentrations at which they display an algicidal action.
Ziram is less phytotoxic and may be used in certain cultures as an algicidal, but its action is preventive rather than curative.
Amoungst the algicides, quinonamide and Irgarol-1051 appeared to be very potent algicides; both products seem to be too phytotoxic.

It is possible to apply H₂O₂ as an algicide, but the mode of application (time, dose) is determinant for a successful algae control without phytotoxicity problems.

IV International Symposium on Soil and Substrate Infestation and Disinfestation

J. Coosemans

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1995.382.30