How to Prevent Root Knot Nematodes

Root knot nematodes are microscopic worms that infest a large variety of plants. The swellings they produce are easy to detect, as they look like tiny knots or nodules along the roots of plants. Infected plants wilt or experience stunted growth and often feature yellowed foliage. Prevention is the best control, for once the nematodes find their way into your environment their eggs can persist for years. Read on to learn how to prevent root know nematodes.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic garbage bags

1. Introduce only clean, uninfected plants into your garden. Examine the roots of plants you purchase from your local nursery for the characteristic nodules.

2. Start plants from seed if root knot nematodes are problematic in your area. The pests must have roots and soil to reproduce, so starting with fresh seedlings grown in sterile soil each year controls them.

3. Conduct a quality check on soil or compost samples before adding large amounts as soil amendment. Call your local county extension agent for a soil check or referral to a laboratory for detection. Take the soil sample from the top layer and include some root pieces.

4. Solarize the soil of your vegetable garden each year. Lay black plastic garbage bags over the soil for one month before planting. This doesn't totally eradicate the pest, but treats the top foot of soil where most root knot nematodes reside.

5. Allow your garden beds to lie fallow for one full growing season to reduce populations. Two fallow seasons can greatly reduce the nematode population in your plants the following year.

6. Grow plants unfavorable to root knot nematodes. Tolerant choices include azaleas, French marigolds and pine trees.