Integrated approach for the management of the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, on eggplant under field conditions

Abstract

A 2-year field study was conducted to develop an eco-friendly field application method for controlling root-knot disease of eggplant (Solanum melongena). The test sites were heavily infested with the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. The efficacy of neem cake (1.5 t ha−1), talc-based preparations of Pseudomonas fluorescens (10 kg ha−1) and Trichoderma harzianum (10 kg ha−1) as soil application and seed treatment (10 g (kg seed)−1) were tested to develop an integrated nematode management module against M. incognita infecting eggplant. Neem cake, P. fluorescens and T. harzianum alone and in combinations significantly reduced the incidence of root-knot disease of eggplant. Fresh and dry weight of shoots were higher in the plant where neem cake, P. fluorescens and T. harzianum had been applied, than in both M. incognita-infected plants and other treatments. The best protection of disease, in terms of reduction in number of galls (81%) and reproductive factor (Pf∕Pi < 0.5) of the nematode, was achieved through this treatment. It also enhanced yield of eggplant by up to 70%. It is suggested that integrated approach using organic amendment with bio-control agents to manage root-knot disease of eggplant under natural infestation is not only environmentally friendly but also more beneficial to growers. This approach also has potential for overcoming some of the efficacy problems that occur with application of individual biological control agent.