Effect of Organic Amendments on Nematode Population Associated with Apple Seedlings

Effect of five organic amendments and a chemical nematicide (Carbofuran) on the nematode associated with the rhizosphere of apple seedlings were investigated. Organic amendments were also tested in combination. The population of Helicotylenchus digonicus were abated by the treatments in the order marigold + Fertinemakil > neem powder + Fertinemakil > neem powder alone. Pratylenchus penetrans population was controlled by the treatments in the order Fertinemakil > sawdust + Fertinemakil > marigold + Fertinemakil. Whereas, the population of Meloidogyne incognita was diminished in the order neem powder + Fertinemakil > sawdust + Fertinemakil > neem powder alone. The role of these organic amendments in soil is discussed and possible nematicidal activity is explained.