An Eco-Tech Solution

Growers are increasingly relying on ozone treatment to disinfect both recycled and fresh irrigation water. As environmental regulations governing discharged water become more stringent, ozone provides a modern, chemical-free alternative to traditional treatment methods. It also addresses the growing problem of plant pathogens developing resistance to conventional fungicides while avoiding many of the undesirable side effects associated with chemical applications.

Pathogens

Ozone is a powerful oxidiser that rapidly destroys fungi, pathogenic bacteria, and viruses responsible for many waterborne plant diseases. It is significantly more effective as a disinfectant than chlorine and many other chemical-based treatment methods.

No Disinfection By-products (DBPs)

Unlike chlorine, ozone is non-toxic and produces no harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs). After destroying pathogens, dissolved ozone naturally reverts back to oxygen, leaving no chemical residue. Growing concerns over DBPs have made ozone an increasingly attractive replacement for traditional water treatment methods.

Control Methods

Growers have traditionally relied on biocides and disinfectants such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, and UV light to control pathogens. While chlorination is effective, residual chemicals can adversely affect plant health. UV systems only disinfect water at the point of treatment and provide no downstream protection. Ozone, however, has been shown to provide a residual disinfecting effect in irrigation and hydroponic systems, helping to maintain water quality throughout the system.

Root Damage

As ozone naturally reverts back to oxygen, it increases dissolved oxygen levels within the root zone, encouraging stronger root development and healthier plant growth. Studies have shown that ozonated water does not damage plant root systems or foliage, even at concentrations as high as 1.5 ppm.

Foliage Damage

While high concentrations of gaseous ozone can damage plant leaves, NOVOZONE has assisted kiwifruit growers in safely applying ozonated water through overhead spray systems. This has proven to be a highly effective method of preventing Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (PSA) from infecting vines.

Nutrients

Ozone is safe for essential plant nutrients. Independent testing has shown that normal ozone treatment does not affect phosphorus or potassium levels. At very high ozone concentrations, its strong oxidising action may cause dissolved iron to precipitate from solution.

Ozone & Plant Health

Ozone dissolves in water up to twelve times more readily than oxygen. As aqueous ozone naturally converts back to oxygen, it enriches irrigation water with dissolved oxygen, promoting stronger root development and healthier plant growth. Beneficial aerobic bacteria also thrive in this oxygen-rich environment. The increased oxygen availability helps many diseased plants recover more quickly while making healthy plants less susceptible to pathogen attack.