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Symptoms:
Root knot nematodes are common to all cucurbits and many other crop species as well. Plants appear sluggish and appear off color even though adequate nutrition is provided. When infected plants are pulled up, roots are “knotted” and swollen with growths which may result in a matted root system in severe cases.

Control:
Crop rotations with a nonsusceptible crop are important. Alternation with a “trap crop” such as Elbon cereal rye which limits nematode reproduction may be effective. Soil fumigation is effective, but expensive.

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Publication Revised July 2009