Rootknot Nematode

Rootknot nematodes are tiny, microscopic worms that live in the soil and in plant roots. Nematode feeding on the roots produces knots or galls, hence the name of this pest. Affected plants are usually stunted, discolored, and may die.

Control: Move the garden location every other year if sufficient land is available; look for very tiny knots on the roots of transplants and avoid planting those that look suspicious; use root knot-resistant varieties; destroy roots by pulling up or plowing under immediately after harvest; rotate with certain varieties of marigolds (`Tangerine' and French dwarf types such as `Petite Gold' or `Petite Harmony,' and perhaps others) planted solid (7 to 8 inches apart on all sides) to reduce rootknot nematode populations by starving them rather than releasing a toxic substance by the marigold roots. Note: Interplanting marigolds with vegetables has not proved satisfactory and should not be considered. Metam sodium, a commercially available nematicide, can be applied as a soil drench. Please follow label directions prior to using this product. Cover the treated area with a layer of plastic for 1 to 2 weeks. Remove the plastic and wait 2 weeks before planting. Metam sodium will also give some control of fungi such as Rhizoctonia and Pythium, and Southern Blight.