Pest:Root Knot Nematodes
Meloidogyne spp
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- Root knot
nematode is a sedentary endoparasite and affects several
crops. Very high populations of this nematode are observed in
all regions.
- The
predominant species is Meloidogyne incognita Maximum
infestations occur during December/January.
- Typical galls
develop on secondary and fibrous roots (Image1).
- Root system
shows extensive necrosis and rotting.
- Leave become
yellow and are defoliated.
- Vine declines
gradually.
- Use nematode
free rooted cuttings raised in soil mixture sterilized by soil
solarization.
- Remove the
severely affected vines which are beyond recovery.
- Treat the
planting pit with phorate @ 30g or carbofuran @ 100 g at the
time of planting.
- Apply in soil,
Phorate @ 30 g or Carbofuran @ 100 g per vine, twice in a
year. Apply first during May/June with the onset on southwest
monsoon and second during September/October.
- Drench the
basins with 1% copper oxychloride @ 5-10 L/vine, 2-3 times
during the monsoon season.
- Apply neem
cake @ 1 kg/vine.
- Rake the soil
in the basin of the vine lightly without causing damage to the
root system, spread the nematicide uniformly in the basin and
cover it with the soil immediately. Ensure sufficient soil
moisture at the time of nematicide application.
- A prophylactic
application of nematicide is also necessary to check the
nematode infestation. For this, make three equidistant holes
of 2-3 cm deep in the bag around the cuttings and place
Phorate @ 1g/bag or Carbofuran @ 3g/bag in these holes and
cover. A light irrigation may also be given to ensure adequate
soil moisture.
- Application of
bacterial suspensions of Bacillus macerans or B. circulans
prior to planting of the vines or just before the monsoon
period in established plants effectively manages root knot
nematode..