What is Nematodes

What is Nematodes.

Nematodes are transmitted by microscopic roundworm in the soil.
Host crops are; Cucumber, Tomato,Okra, Carrots etc

Symptoms
-The nematodes are small and appear as worm
-Attack the root and stem of the plant.
-Swollen root (galls),stunting, wilting, early senescence (yellowing of the leaves).
-Spread by water,contaminated equipment or by the people.

Management and control
– Use of resistant variety, or rootstock if there is any.
– Crop rotation.
– Inter cropping the field with marigold or flower strip between the crops can reduce population .
– Cover bed with plastic mulch to kill the nematodes .
– Enhance the structure of the soil by putting soil amendments (calcium, P, K, organic fertilizer.)
– Biofumigation.
– Incorporate neem cake to suppress population