Some Things You Need to Know About Root Knot Nematodes

General Description and Location

Root knot nematodes are generally all from the
Meloidogyne species. Even though there are
hundreds of species spread throughout the world,
they all tend to cause the same types of
problems. Root knot nematodes inhabit the soil
and attach susceptible plants and trees at the
roots. Typically, an infestation is
characterized by sudden wilting in the plants,
and poor production of fruits and vegetables. If
you look at the roots and parts of the stem
buried in the soil, you will usually see knotted
galls, or scars in these parts of the plant.

Problems for Humans and Animals

At the current time, well over 2000 different
types of plants and trees can be destroyed by
root knot nematodes. This includes root
vegetables, trees, and tomatoes. In fact, these
parasites are so destructive, they account for
approximately 5% of all seasonal crop losses.
While they do not spread pathogens, and are
generally not harmful to humans that come into
contact with them, they are still deadly to
plants

Natural Solutions

Unfortunately, root knot nematodes tend to be
difficult to get rid of They have few natural
predators, and can go beyond one foot below the
surface of the soil to escape pesticides.
Depending on where you live, it may not even be
legal to irrigate soil with pesticides in a way
that will get rid of root knot nematodes.

No matter whether you have a garden or farm,
there are still some things you can do to get
rid of these parasites. Today, many gardeners
plant marigolds, corn, wheat, and rye in with
other plants that are susceptible to infection.
You can also rotate crops, or simply let the
land lay fallow for at least one year in order
to get rid of an infestation.

Many home gardeners today also cover moistened
ground with clear plastic for several months
during the summer season. This will heat up the
soil enough to kill off the nematodes, as well
as their eggs. In most cases, you will still
need to let the land stay fallow for at least
one year in order to make sure that all of the
parasites are gone. That said, if you wind up
with a severe infestation in the middle of a
growing season, you can still use this method to
reduce the number of parasites as quickly as
possible.

In many cases, root knot nematodes lay their
eggs on young plants that you buy from
nurseries. Therefore, you will need to examine
all plants carefully before you buy them. If
possible, you may find it better to purchase
seeds and start them in you own greenhouse.
Depending on how you feel about genetically
modified organisms, you may also want to look
for plants or seeds that are resistant to this
particular parasite.

Recent Outbreaks

At the current time, alfalfa crops in California
are endangered by root knot nematodes. If you
happen to live near a farm, or know that other
neighbors with gardens do not select their
nursery plants with care, it may be to your
advantage to plant a few extra marigolds around
your property. You can also ask your local
cooperative extension if these parasites are
currently causing problems in your local area.

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