PLANT DOCTOR
Nematodes part 1: the backstory
Did you know that there are 1,000,000 species of nematodes that have been identified?![]() |
Galling from root knot nematode on tomato plant |
- The majority of nematodes aren't plant or crop destructors.
- Then there's the problem of identifying what's going on with plants that are affected by nematodes.
- Have you ever had plants that seem to wilt despite you watering them religiously?
What they look like
Nematodes are a round worm but because they are unable to be seen by the naked eye, I would describe them as thread like with a large head and mouth.
Arm yourself with a hand held magnifying glass and have a look at the roots of plants that you suspect have been attacked by nematodes. You should be able to see them then.
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Coffee tree nematode |
If nematodes are on your plants the symptoms range from perhaps they’re just stunted and don’t seem to grow much, r like the coffee tree pictured, continually looks like it's wilting despite the watering it receives. Another symptom is yellowing of foliage.
So let’s find out by listening to the podcast
Your host of Real World Gardener, Marianne is talking with Steve McGrane, agriculturist and horticulturist.
Part 2 is when we tackle the many, many ways you have to control the bad nematode, namely root knot nematodes.
If you have any questions you can email us Realworldgardener@gmail.com or write in to 2rrr, PO Box 644 Gladesville NSW 1675.
Nematodes pt 2
Root Knot Nematodes:Control
So if you have correctly identified that your plants are affected by root knot nematodes, what can be done about it? Remember, they look different to nitrogen fixing nodules on roots of plants.- rotating your plants-nematodes only survive 1 year in the soil.
- Asparagus, peanut plants, Corn, Garlic, marigolds.
- Mustard plants release isothyocyanates.
- EcoGrow supply beneficial nematodes.
- Steve recommends crushing some prawn shells into your compost: will also control other fungal problems.
Your host of Real World Gardener, Marianne is talking with Steve McGrane, agriculturist and horticulturist.
If you have any questions you can email us Realworldgardener@gmail.com or write in to 2rrr, PO Box 644 Gladesville NSW 1675.