Managing Nematode Infection in Fruit Orchards

Abstract

Plant-parasitic nematodes are one of the biggest threats to the production of various fruit crops worldwide. Nematodes cause adverse impacts on various crops, such as declining plant growth, and may lead to the destruction of large areas, like in banana, peach, and citrus orchards. Yellowing, stunting, and wilting are common symptoms of nematode infection in fruit orchards, and they are all associated with tree decline and decreasing yield. The efficiency of controlling nematodes varies due to many biotic and abiotic factors, such as soil type, nematode species, host plant physiology, and climate conditions, which affect nematode dynamics and infestation in the soil. Therefore, using integrated strategies with new management practices for controlling nematode infection is required to reduce economic loss for fruit producers. Hence, using biological control field management practices such as fallow, cover crops, and mulching, could be an effective way to inhibit nematodes' growth. Thus, they sustain the production of various crops, protect the environment, and preserve human health.