Root-knot Nematode Problem in Polyhouse Roses and its Management Using Dazomet, Neem Cakeand Pochonia Chlamydosporia (Verticillium Chlamydosporium)

An experiment was carried out in root-knot nematode infested rose commercial polyhouses using dazomet as pre-plant soil sterilant (25 g/m²); antagonistic fungus, Pochonia chlamydosporia (2×l010 spores/m²); neem cake (1.0 kg/ m²) and their combinations. A combination of dazomet followed by soil amendment with P. chlamydosporia and neem cake recorded maximum per cent healthy root, flower yield and plant recover compared to other combinations. The fungus established better in dazomet treated and neem cake amended beds. The next best treatment was dazomet with P. chlamydosporia in terms of reduced nematode populations, establishment of the fungus and flower yield/m². This approach of pre-treating soil with dazomet, followed by the introduction of antagonistic fungus along with neem cake aided in restoring the soil health and antagonistic potential for long-term benefit.