Potential of biological control agents, organic amendments and crop rotation on root-knot nematodes

Abstract

Integrated approaches are fast gaining popularity in the management of root knot nematodes ( Meloidogyne spp.). This study was undertaken to assess the potential of integrating a biological control agent ( Pochonia chlamydosporia isolate 10), crop rotation (maize) and organic amendment (maize stover) in the management of root knot nematodes in tomato production. One greenhouse and two field (dry and rainy seasons) experiments were conducted with tomato as the preferred crop. Pochonia chlamydosporia isolate 10, maize stover and maize were used as treatments either singly or in combinations before tomato was grown in the second season. Results from the field experiments showed that application of P. chlamydosporia and maize stover into the plots where maize was planted, significantly ( P<0.005 ) reduced numbers of root knot nematodes. Moreover the combination reduced in season two galling of tomato roots planted in the glasshouse and in the field.. Application of P. chlamydosporia in plots where maize was planted increased the yield of tomato by 63% in the first season compared to plots where no nematode management measure was done. Therefore, in this study rotating maize crop with tomato has been effective on its own and also in combination with a biological control agent and organic amendments.