Section 4: Sanitation of Greenhouse Benches and Production Surfaces
Benches and production surfaces should be kept clean. Bacteria, fungi and algae may grow on benches and production surfaces (this can be particularly problematic on wooden benches and floor systems). A periodic disinfecting will help to control diseases as well as some common greenhouse pests. There are numerous materials on the market that can be used to clean and disinfect benches and production floor surfaces. Among these are the quaternary ammonium compounds such as GreenShield®, Physan® and Triathlon®. There are the hydrogen dioxide compounds Zerotol® and Oxidate® and the chlorine dioxide-based Selectrocide T®. In addition to these commercial products, chlorine bleach may be used to clean and disinfect production surfaces. All of these products are unique and greenhouse managers should carefully read the product labels and follow instructions when using these products.
Greenhouses should also be kept weed free. Weeds can harbor greenhouse pests and produce seed that find their way and germinate in flats or containers. Weeds should be continually removed even when the greenhouse is not in use. This will prevent weeds from being able to grow and seed out inside the greenhouse. Weeds outside of the greenhouse should also be kept mowed so that they do not seed and the seed find their way into the greenhouse.
