Mustard - Hot stuff for natural pest control

Modern science is putting a centuries-old farming practice under the microscope for its potential to help with control of pests and diseases in modern agriculture; and we can also benefit in our own small-scale agriculture here at AAEV.

Some plant species of the cabbage family (Brassicas) naturally release compounds that suppress pests and pathogens, principally isothiocyanates (ITCs), which most people would recognise as the ‘hot’ flavour in mustard or horseradish. This week, researchers, growers and industry specialists from 22 countries are sharing the latest research into use of Brassica species, such as mustard, radish, or rapeseed, to manage soil-borne pests and weeds – a technique known as biofumigation. Read more at:
http://www.csiro.au/news/BiofumigationSymposium.html
Thanks to Brad N. for the link).