Cover crops and nematicides: comprehensive nematode IPM across the grove landscape

Cover crops and nematicides: comprehensive nematode IPM across the grove landscape

Report Date: 06/24/2021
Project: 18-036C   Year: 2021
Category: Horticultural & Management
Author: Larry Duncan
Sponsor: Citrus Research and Development Foundation

Nematicide treatments for the final spring season were applied.  Sting nematode populations were monitored monthly in row middle treatments of cover crop or native vegetation. Results to date were reported at the Florida Citrus Show in May and in the June issue of Citrus Industry. The primary information conveyed to both outlets is that 1) during two years, perennial peanut reduced the number of sting nematodes in row middles by more than 90%, which may be beneficial as the trees grow and root systems expand, 2) to the extent that the different nematicides reduced sting nematode numbers, the trees responded with increased vegetative (fibrous roots and trunks) growth, 3) during the first two years of production, tree growth rate was inversely related to number of fruit, 4) preliminary observation of tree growth in groves heavily damaged by sting nematode indicates that tolerance of sting nematode herbivory is likely conferred by blocking HLB occurrance via use of individual protective covers.     


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