How to Get Rid of Nematodes on Peas Plant

Nematodes are microscopic, worm-like organisms that can cause significant damage to plants, including peas. These pests live in the soil and feed on the roots of plants, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced yield. If you have discovered nematodes on your pea plants, don’t panic! There are several strategies you can employ to control and eliminate these pests. This article will guide you through the process of getting rid of nematodes on your pea plants.

1. Crop Rotation

Crop rotation is an effective method to manage nematode populations in the soil. Nematodes tend to be host-specific, meaning that they target specific plant species. By rotating your pea crops with non-host plants for a few years, you can break the nematode’s life cycle and reduce their numbers.

When selecting non-host crops for rotation, choose plants that are not susceptible to nematode infestation. Good options include corn, sunflowers, and marigolds. These plants not only help control nematodes but also improve soil health and fertility.

2. Soil Solarization

Soil solarization is a technique that utilizes sunlight to kill nematodes and other soil-borne pests. To solarize your soil, follow these steps:

1. Start by removing any weeds or crop debris from the area where peas were previously grown.
2. Rake the soil surface to remove any large clumps or rocks.
3. Water the area thoroughly.
4. Cover the soil with a clear plastic sheet, ensuring it is tightly secured around the edges.
5. Leave the plastic sheet in place for at least six weeks during the hottest months of the year (summer).
6. After six weeks, remove the plastic sheet and allow the soil to cool before planting new pea crops.

The heat trapped under the plastic sheet will raise the soil temperature, effectively killing nematodes and other soil pests. This method is particularly useful for small garden plots.

3. Biological Control

Introducing beneficial organisms that prey on nematodes can help keep their populations in check. One such organism is the nematode-attacking fungus, Paecilomyces lilacinus. This fungus parasitizes and kills nematodes, reducing their numbers in the soil.

To use this biological control method, you can purchase P. lilacinus as a commercial product and apply it to your pea plants according to the instructions provided. It’s important to note that biological controls may take time to establish and be effective, so patience is key.

4. Organic Soil Amendments

Certain organic soil amendments can help reduce nematode populations by improving soil health and promoting beneficial microbial activity. Here are a few examples:

• Compost: Incorporating compost into the soil not only adds essential nutrients but also enhances soil structure and promotes beneficial microbial activity, which can suppress nematodes.
• Cover Crops: Planting cover crops like mustard or sudangrass can help suppress nematode populations. These plants release natural compounds that are toxic to nematodes.
• Neem Cake: Neem cake is a byproduct of the neem tree and acts as a natural nematicide. Adding neem cake to the soil can help reduce nematode populations over time.

When using organic soil amendments, it’s essential to follow the recommended application rates and timing for optimal effectiveness.

5. Nematicides

In severe cases of nematode infestation, when all other methods have failed, nematicides may be necessary. Nematicides are chemical compounds specifically designed to kill nematodes. However, it’s important to note that nematicides can also harm beneficial organisms and have potential environmental impacts, so they should be used as a last resort and with caution.

If you decide to use a nematicide, carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. It’s crucial to wear protective clothing and adhere to safety precautions to prevent any harm to yourself or the environment.

Conclusion

Nematodes can pose a significant threat to pea plants, but with proper management strategies, their populations can be controlled and reduced. Crop rotation, soil solarization, biological controls, organic soil amendments, and nematicides are all effective methods for getting rid of nematodes on pea plants. By implementing these strategies and maintaining good soil health, you can ensure the continued productivity and health of your pea crops.