THE steam sterilization of soils is well known; for example, as carried out under glass for tomato growing—a practice which is now accepted as routine. As well as achieving a drastic diminution ...

Steam sterilization involves heating the soil up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit for a period of time. The heat doesn’t eliminate all pests because there are some pathogens that are heat resistant.

This steam soil steriliser was invented and patented by P F Dorey in 1911 and built by John Leale. Tomatoes were brought to Europe around 1500 but were initially thought to be poisonous.

This steam soil steriliser was invented and patented by P F Dorey in 1911 and built by John Leale. Tomatoes were brought to Europe around 1500 but were initially thought to be poisonous.