Root knot nematodes or eel worms are those hidden annoyances that you dont really know that youve got them until its too late. Root knot nematodes are a microscopic parasite that sucks the life out of your plants. If a plant collapses for no reason (looks like it needs watering but doesnt), looks droopy but bounces back in the evening, is generally failing to thrive and you get these little nodules on the roots it’s probably likely you have an infestation of them. Be aware that some nitrogen fixing nodules on beans and peas look very similar.
Recently I noticed some swiss chard struggling to take off. I thought perhaps I wasnt watering enough or I had planted too close. I decided to relocate a couple and thats when I found the problem.
The delicate blooms of Alpine Stork’s Bill (Erodium cicutarium) are a lovely addition to rock gardens and alpine plantings. However, below the soil, these wildflowers face a threat – plant-parasitic nematodes. These microscopic roundworms infect roots, stunting growth and reducing flowers. Once you spot signs of infestation, taking action to get rid of nematodes on Alpine Stork’s Bill is key. In this article, we’ll explore organic, chemical, and preventative methods to conquer nematodes and restore your plants’ health.
Identifying Nematode Damage
Start by checking for telltale symptoms of nematode problems
- Stunted or slow growth
-Wilting, yellowing, or browning leaves - Decline in blooms
- Swellings or galls on roots
Dig up a few plants and examine the roots – swollen areas indicate active nematode infections. Sent soil samples to an agricultural lab for analysis to confirm nematode presence and get advice on best treatment methods.
Organic Approaches to Control Nematodes
Organic solutions harness nature to create an environment unfavorable to nematodes
Solarizing Soil
Solarization uses the sun’s power to heat soil under clear plastic, killing nematodes through high temperatures. Water the area, cover with plastic sheets, and leave for 4-6 weeks in summer. This pasteurizes the soil but also kills beneficial organisms.
Planting Resistant Species
Rotate nematode-resistant plants like zinnias, marigolds, or mustard greens in infected areas to disrupt nematode life cycles. Leave 2-3 years between replanting susceptible Alpine Stork’s Bills.
Applying Organic Mulch
A 2-4 inch layer of compost, shredded leaves, straw, or other organic mulch introduces predatory microbes that attack nematodes. The added soil nutrition also strengthens plants’ defenses.
Interplanting with French Marigolds
French marigolds (Tagetes patula) release nematode-suppressing compounds from their roots. Interplant them among Alpine Stork’s Bills and incorporate into beds after flowering.
Chemical Control Methods
For severe infestations, certified nematicide products may be warranted. Always follow label directions carefully.
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Fumigants like metam sodium kill nematodes at all life stages by releasing gas into the soil. However, they require specialized equipment and training to apply safely.
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Non-fumigant nematicides like fluopyram are less hazardous but only kill nematodes in larval and juvenile forms. They must be reapplied frequently.
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Coat seeds with nematicidal seed treatments to protect emerging seedlings from infection.
While faster-acting than organic solutions, chemical nematicides can pollute groundwater and kill beneficial organisms. Use integrated pest management best practices to limit reliance on these toxic tools.
Preventing Reinfestation
Good sanitation and soil health practices help avoid repeated nematode issues:
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Carefully remove and destroy infected plants and roots. Don’t compost.
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Disinfect tools, pots, and greenhouse surfaces between uses.
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Allow 2-3 years before replanting Alpine Stork’s Bills in infected areas.
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Test soil annually and treat any nematodes found early before populations explode.
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Amend soil with compost, manure, and organic matter to encourage beneficial microbes.
Conquer Nematodes for Carefree Flowers
Left unchecked, parasitic roundworms can decimate delicate Alpine Stork’s Bill plants, robbing them of their graceful charm. But armed with this guide on nematode identification, organic solutions, chemical control, and prevention, you can protect your Erodium cicutarium from these tiny pests. Employ integrated methods on first sight of symptoms, and your rock garden will once again flourish with carefree flowers on thriving, nematode-free plants.
How to avoid root knot nematodes
Like anything, a healthy garden is going to have a wide variety of annoying bugs every now and them. So its likely you wont see the end of them, so its all about management.
Ensure youre adding well aged manure, loads of compost and worm castings (compost gold!) to give your soil a boost. Were taking so much out of it by growing the food we eat we need to make sure its healthy and restored.
Where possible, move your crops around. As we plant so intensively in a small space we need to do this particularly for the more pest susceptible plants.
Bio fumigate Green Manure
You can purchase special green manure crops that are said to eradicate them. These generally include a mix of brassicas (mustard in particular). Generally these are things they dont like when they start to decompose (a substance known as isothiocyanate).
With this kind of green manure crop its important to dig it in not just chop and drop, which unfortunately is going to disturb a whole lot in your soil so keep this in mind as essentially youre going to have to build up the soil again.
How To Get Rid Of Nematodes In The Vegetable Garden
FAQ
What kills nematodes instantly?
What is a home remedy for nematodes?
Does vinegar kill nematodes in plants?
What repels nematodes?
How do I get rid of nematodes in my garden?
Strategies such as crop rotation, adding organic matter, and fostering a diverse population of organisms can create a less accommodating environment for nematodes. I also utilize specific methods to target these pests without disturbing the beneficial nematodes or the soil’s health, which can be crucial for a thriving garden.
How do I get rid of stork’s Bill?
Finally, make sure to give all equipment that has been in infested fields a good clean, to make sure no seeds are transferred. There are some good cultural control methods for Stork’s Bill, starting with spring and fall cultivation in crop fields, which will destroy the seedlings that have grown in summer and fall germination.
What plants kill nematodes?
Painted daisy ( Chrysanthemum coccineum) is useful for warding off nematode problems because it produces a botanical toxin that kills root nematodes. French marigold ( Tagetes patula) produces a natural chemical that kills several types of nematodes, including the root-knot nematodes that attack carrots and many other vegetable plants.
How do you know if a plant has a root-knot nematode?
Symptoms that your plants may exhibit if they are suffering from a root-knot nematode infestation include wilting, chlorosis, yellowing, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. This can make it difficult to diagnose a root-knot nematode infestation because you may notice your plants wilting on a hot day, and simply assume they need more water.