What is the worst fear of root-knot nematodes?
Today's life experience brings you the topic of what root-knot nematodes fear the most, let's take a look together!
What is the worst fear of root-knot nematodes?
Root-knot nematodes, commonly known as root gall disease, are most afraid of thiazophos and maintenance. They pose the most severe threat to various vegetable crops such as cucumbers, watermelons, muskmelons, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Thiazophos is an organophosphate insecticide that can not only directly kill the root-knot nematodes in the soil it contacts but also eliminate nematodes that have already formed root galls in the root system. It can be said to have a significant effect on eliminating root-knot nematodes, but attention must be paid to its usage method, as incorrect usage may harm the plants.
Harm caused by root-knot nematodes
Root-knot nematodes, commonly known as root gall disease, are obligate parasitic nutrients. They have a wide range of hosts and are one of the most severe diseases in agricultural production. Root-knot nematodes cause the most severe damage to various vegetable crops such as cucumbers, watermelons, muskmelons, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
Plant root-knot nematode disease is a widespread global disease. Most grain and economic crops can be infected, usually resulting in a yield reduction of 20%-30%, and even complete crop failure. However, root-knot nematodes are most afraid of poplar trees, which generally do not get infected.
Root-knot nematode images
What is the best pesticide for root-knot nematodes?
Thiazophos is definitely the nemesis of root-knot nematodes. Traditional nematicide agents such as aldicarb and ethoprop have been banned due to issues with toxicity and residue, making thiazophos the go-to option.
Thiazophos is an organophosphate insecticide, and its control of root-knot nematodes is mainly reflected in its contact and systemic effects.
On one hand, it can directly kill the root-knot nematodes in the soil it contacts. On the other hand, it can be absorbed by the plant's root system to eliminate nematodes that have already formed root galls.
How to use thiazophos
The first method is to apply granules before planting for prevention, usually selecting 10% thiazophos granules at 1500-2000g per mu.
The second method is to use hole application for prevention, but it is recommended to mix with some organic fertilizer or sand soil in advance for higher safety.
The third method is to apply with water, after the occurrence of root-knot nematodes, based on the severity, apply 20% thiazophos suspension at 750-1000ml per mu for control.
Precautions when using thiazophos to treat root-knot nematodes
Scientific use of thiazophos to control root-knot nematodes can result in visible changes in the roots within 5 to 7 days, with a lasting effect of about 30 days! Although thiazophos is highly effective in killing nematodes and has been recognized by many users, there are also many issues when using it.
1. Root burn
As mentioned at the beginning, excessive use can lead to root burn. Therefore, it is important to use it as directed, with the general amount of 20% per mu not exceeding 1.5 kilograms. Do not blindly increase the amount of thiazophos used, as it may have the opposite effect.
2. Pay attention to root care
When using thiazophos to control root-knot nematodes, attention should also be paid to root care. High concentrations of thiazophos can inhibit root growth, with the youngest roots being the most sensitive.
Moreover, during the process of eliminating nematodes, the position of the root galls will also be damaged. If no components that nourish the roots are used, there is a chance of plant growth stagnation, wilting, and death.
Therefore, it is generally recommended to use compounds like sodium nitroprusside, brassinosteroids, and amino acid fertilizers when applying nematicides to promote root recovery!
3. Do not use continuously
Thiazophos should not be used continuously, as root-knot nematodes have developed significant resistance to it. Some farmers have even used up to 3-5 kilograms of 10% thiazophos granules per mu to prevent root-knot nematodes.
On one hand, the cost is too high, and the effect is not necessarily good, and it may also inhibit growth. It is recommended to use it in combination with abamectin or alternate with abamectin for better results!
The detailed explanation above about what root-knot nematodes fear the most is for reference and suggestion only.