Which method specifically targets heat-sensitive pathogens during soil treatment?

Steam heat is an effective method specifically targeting heat-sensitive pathogens during soil treatment because it utilizes high temperatures to kill various microorganisms, including pathogens, while also being suitable for sensitive plant materials. The process involves mixing steam into the soil, raising the soil temperature to a level that can eliminate unwanted pathogens without causing significant harm to the soil structure or beneficial organisms that may be temperature tolerant.

This method is particularly useful in sterilizing the top layers of soil where many pathogens are found, as it can penetrate the soil to a sufficient depth, thus effectively reducing inoculum levels. In contrast, other methods like solarization and fumigation may not focus as directly on heat-sensitive pathogens, while chemical sterilization involves using chemicals that may not specifically target heat-sensitive pathogens as effectively as steam does.