Bio-Management of Root-Knot Nematodes on Cucumber Using Biocidal Effects of Some Brassicaceae Crops

Abstract

Biofumigant and crop sequencing are effective and safe control system activators that maintain soil fertility and reduce pest populations. The study goals were to find new pesticide-free therapies for root-knot nematode management on cucumbers to maintain high yields and protect the environment and human health. In 2018 and 2019, the research employed a fully randomized block design under field conditions with five treatments and control: two bio- fumigants, cultivation of cucumber after broccoli plantlets incorporation (BPI) and radish plantlets incorporation (RPI), two crop sequence treatments (cultivation after broccoli (BCS) and radish (RCS), and nematicide treatment). Cucumber cultivation after BPI treatment exhibited the best horticultural traits, which reflected positively on early and total productivity. The increased yield was gained by suppressing all nematode parameters, the number of nematode larvae, galls, and egg masses, as well as egg hatching reduction. The most effective biocides, total phenols, myrosinase activity, total glucosinolates (GSLs), and isothiocyanates (ITCs) in brassica crops were estimated for their pesticide properties. The highest amount was released with BPI treatment, compared to adult plants and radish in its two stages. The bio-managed treatments revealed superior effectiveness compared to nematicide application and control to suppress the nematode population while enhancing cucumber growth and production.