Root-Knot Nematodes
Not all enemies are visible. Root-knot nematodes are microscopic pests that live in the soil and attack the roots of crops like tomato, okra, brinjal, cucurbits, and banana.
They create swellings (galls) on roots, which block water and nutrient uptake. The result?
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Stunted growth
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Yellowing leaves
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Wilting even with enough water
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Low yield
These pests spread easily through soil, water, and tools—and by the time you see symptoms, it’s often too late.
How to Manage:
Crop rotation with non-host crops
Soil solarization before planting
Neem cake or organic inputs
Bio-nematicides like Trichoderma and Paecilomyces
Resistant seed varieties
