The Southern Rhode Island Conservation District offers rental services and technical assistance for the use of a Sioux Steam-Flo Soil Steamer. This innovative tool helps agricultural professionals and hobbyists alike prepare their soil for planting by organically eliminating harmful pathogens, weeds, and pests. Learn more about how the Sioux Soil Steamer works, why it's an essential tool for organic farming, and how you can access one.

What is a Soil Steamer?

A soil steamer is a powerful agricultural device that uses steam to sterilize soil. By using low-pressure steam, the soil steamer organically controls diseases, insects, and weeds. The heat generated by the steam raises the soil temperature, pasteurizing it and eliminating harmful organisms that could affect plant growth. Soil steamers are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, including:

• Greenhouses
• High Tunnels
• Open Fields

How Does It Work?

The steamer delivers steam to the soil through a combination of a steam sock and tarp, which ensures even distribution of heat across the area. The process works by:

1. Heating the Soil: The steam raises the temperature of the soil to 170°-180°F.
2. Pasteurization: The heat remains within this range for at least 30 minutes, effectively pasteurizing the soil. This time frame is crucial to eliminate:
   • Weed Seeds
   • Harmful Pathogens
   • Nematodes
   • Other Contaminants

The total steaming time may vary based on the soil type and ambient temperatures, but once the soil has cooled down, it's ready for planting.

Why Use a Soil Steamer?

Using a steam-based system offers several advantages over traditional chemical methods:

• Safer: Steam is less hazardous than chemical applications and offers an organic solution to soil pasteurization.
• Effective: While chemicals can lead to resistance over time, steam remains consistently effective.
• Better Plant Health: Steaming the soil before planting can result in healthier, larger plants with improved yields.
• Environmentally Friendly: Steam helps you practice environmental stewardship by sterilizing soil without the need for harmful chemicals.

The Benefits of Soil Steaming

By utilizing a soil steamer, you are not only helping to ensure a healthy start for your crops, but you’re also contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. The Sioux Soil Steamer provides an excellent alternative to chemical soil treatments, offering a chemical-free and effective method to control harmful pests, weeds, and pathogens.

Where to Get One

The Southern Rhode Island Conservation District owns and offers rental and technical assistance for the use of a Sioux Steam-Flo Soil Steamer. For more details, to schedule a rental, or if you have any questions about the process contact our Steamer Coordinator Meghan Seeley at mseeley@sricd.org or 401-258-0268. 

Learn More
To learn more about Soil Steaming, check out this helpful video.