Nematode infestation has been a silent killer of farmers in a prosperous strawberry growing area. Root-knot nematodes in particular have a notorious reputation of attacking the roots of strawberry plants leading to stunted growth, poor yields and economic losses that are felt all the way to the community. I have experienced these challenges as an organic strawberry farmer. I had seen, year after year, healthy plants wilt and their roots were filled with galls and the fruit production reduced to the minimum. The chemical nematicides gave me immediate solutions, but I was concerned with the health of the soil, residue, and the sustainability of my farm in the long run. That is when I resorted to paecilomyces lilacinus products, and everything changed.
Getting to know the Enemy: Root Knot Nematodes
Root knot nematodes control are microscopic round worms which attack the roots of plants and cause characteristic galls which interrupt the water and nutrient uptake. These pests may be disastrous in strawberries, particularly when they go uncontrolled. The initial symptoms are slight: a spot of plants that appear to be less vigorous, leaves that turn yellow early, and fruit that does not size up. The real guilty party is exposed by digging up the roots, and what is found is swollen, knotted root systems full of nematodes. It is important to differentiate between nematode damages and other diseases in the soil. Whereas fungal diseases such as powdery mildew cause white spots on the leaves and stems, nematodes operate underground, and frequent checks on the roots are necessary to identify them early.
Paecilomyces lilacinus: The Role of Paecilomyces lilacinus
I was determined to keep my soil and crops safe without using any harsh chemicals; therefore, I started researching the bionematicide alternatives. This is when I found out the strength of paecilomyces lilacinus products. Paecilomyces lilacinus is a soil fungus that is naturally present and is a biological nematicide that attacks the eggs, juveniles and adult females of root knot nematodes and other plant-parasitic nematodes. Agricultural extension experts and research studies have found that this fungus attaches itself to the eggs of the nematodes, enters their shells and feeds on the growing larvae within the eggs. It increases over time in the soil forming a protective layer around the roots of plants and reducing nematode populations season after season.
The difference between paecilomyces lilacinus and chemical nematicides is that the former is safe and sustainable. It does not leave any toxic residues, is non-harmful to beneficial insects and pollinators, and even enhances the health of the soil, by boosting microbial diversity. Researchers at universities have discovered that the fields that are treated with paecilomyces lilacinus not only have fewer nematodes but also have thicker roots and overall increased plant vigor. To organic farmers such as myself, this translates to healthier crops and a good night sleep.
Nema Pro: Harnessing the Power of Paecilomyces lilacinus
Nema Pro is one of the best paecilomyces lilacinus products that I have ever used. Nema Pro is also in the form of a wettable powder and hence its application is easy either by drip irrigation or as a soil drench. It contains large amounts of its active ingredient, paecilomyces lilacinus, which guarantees quick colonization of the root zone. I normally use 3-4.5 kg per acre at planting, and I combine it with well-decomposed organic manure to help it spread and remain in the soil longer. To control root knot nematodes on a season-long basis, I reapply every 28 days in high-pressure regions or following heavy rains.
The outcomes have been spectacular. After a month of the initial application, I observed an immense decrease in the galling of the roots and the reappearance of the healthy white feeder roots. My strawberry plants recovered, and now they have strong foliage and bigger and sweeter berries. Nema Pro did not leave any residues as chemical treatments do, and it did not threaten the organic certification of my farm. My experience is supported by research data: it has been demonstrated that Nema Pro can decrease the population of nematodes by more than 90 percent in one season, as well as increase crop yields and their resistance.
Nema ProMax: A Multipurpose Bionematicide Companion
Although I use Nema Pro as my preventative nematode control product, there are times when the circumstances require an immediate solution. Nema ProMax comes in there. Nema ProMax does not have paecilomyces lilacinus as an active ingredient unlike Nema Pro. Rather, it uses the strength of positive bacteria, in this case, Burkholderia spp. and Bacillus pumilus, to attack nematodes using another mechanism of action.
These bacteria are also characterized by killing nematode larvae within a short duration, interfere with the hatching of eggs, and enhance the development of healthy roots by producing natural growth stimulants.
Nema ProMax is a liquid bionematicide which may be used in drenching of the soil, chemigation, or even as a broadcast spray. I have applied it in areas where the nematode pressure was high and suddenly increased and the results have been amazing: in 24 hours, the number of nematode larvae decreased significantly, and my plants visibly improved. Since Nema ProMax is residue-free and can be used in organic and conventional farming systems, it will work perfectly in my integrated pest management plan. It is flexible and fast acting and complements Nema Pro well, particularly at times of high nematode activity or in cooler soils where fungal activity might be slow.
Integrating Bionematicides with Cultural Practices
Nema Pro and Nema ProMax are most effective when good agricultural practices are used. In my farm, crop rotation is one of the key practices in nematode management. To break the nematode life cycle, I alternate strawberries with cereals or legumes. Solarization, which is the covering of wet soil with transparent plastic during the warmest months, also decreases the nematode population prior to planting. I also add compost and organic matter to my beds, which nurtures desirable microbes and assists plants to withstand slight nematode injury.
The experts at the university stress that the sustainable control of root knot nematodes is achieved through the combination of bionematicides and cultural practices. Dr. Lena Rodriguez, a soil microbiologist at UC Davis observes that a combination of products such as Nema Pro and Nema ProMax with crop rotation and organic amendments makes the soil ecosystem resilient. This will cut nematode pressure by up to 90 percent and promote long-term soil health.”
The Economic and Environmental Advantages
The replacement of paecilomyces lilacinus products and other bionematicides has not only brought my yields back to normal but also boosted the bottom line in my farm. Better plants imply more quality fruit and reduced loss to disease. I have also saved on the money I use in re-applying the chemicals and the crops I lose. And, most importantly, I can be sure that I am preserving the land to be used by the future generations- I am building soil health, helping pollinators, and creating a more sustainable food system.
Conclusion: New Age of Nematode Control
The war against root knot nematodes is not yet won, however, with safe and sustainable products such as paecilomyces lilacinus products, Nema Pro, and Nema ProMax, organic farmers stand a good chance of winning. With a little knowledge of the biology of these pests, being able to distinguish their symptoms with other diseases, and through the use of bionematicides as part of an integrated approach, we can save our crops, our soil and our livelihoods. This change has not only resulted in improved yields, but also a new hope in the future of sustainable farming in my region and to me and many other farmers.