Biofilm is one of those frustrating things that gardeners have to deal with. It can result when water is involved, and unfortunately, it houses bacteria growth. One of the dangerous pathogens that it can spread is Pythium. It can invade soil and cause root rot. Biofilm can also cause clogs in drip emitters, keeping plants from being able to receive water. In addition, it can lead to clogs in filters, too. Overall, biofilm can create more maintenance requirements for irrigating systems. And if biofilm isn’t managed, it can lead to destroyed crops and reduced profits.
Thankfully, growers can do a few things to help reduce biofilm.
1. Consider the fertilizer and irrigation system carefully. Some irrigation system designs are better suited to help reduce biofilm. As this article explains, “only using mineral nutrients” instead of “a variety of amendments containing various carbon sources such as sugars” can help reduce biofilm development. Now, keep in mind that Worm Power has never caused biofilm buildup in irrigation lines, nor has it been known to foul emitters either as a result of biofilm or as a result of solids “dropping out” of our product. So, this could be an option to help crops grow well without additional biofilm buildup.
2. Keep to a strict maintenance plan. Regular maintenance will help keep biofilm at bay. Here are some of the different options the article explains to help keep water clean and systems free of biofilm.
a. Use sanitizers: Some will use “sanitizing products,” known as “chemigation” to “prevent excess growth of biofilm.” This is used at a “low rate continuously or a frequented predetermined intervals during crop growth.”
b. Scheduled flushing: Many growers will have a flushing schedule for valves to clean out the irrigation systems. When this is done periodically, it can help get rid of biofilm and keep it from making it to the drip emitters.
c. Disinfection via UV rays: UV rays are another way to help reduce the bacteria.
d. Reverse osmosis: This is another option for purifying water which allows clean water to flow through but not the majority of contaminants.
e. Oxidation: This method for cleaning water “kills microbes through cell lysis.”
f. Nanobubbles: This is an option that helps to “disinfect irrigation water, destroy existing biofilm and prevent biofilm.”
Overall, when it comes to keeping irrigation systems clean and reducing biofilm there are three main important aspects. It’s essential to carefully think about what type of fertilizers you want to use, the irrigation system that is best for your efforts, and what your maintenance plan will be. If you find you’re having difficulties with the current plan, it may be time to reconsider efforts and tweak current methods.
Since Biofilm is a common problem. We often get asked if Worm Power will cause it to build up in the drip lines. As we mentioned earlier, you don’t have to be concerned about Worm Power causing biofilm. Instead, you can count on this product to help assist in crop growth and earnings. Learn more about Worm Power by visiting our website.