Control of plant parasitic nematodes in sultana grapevines (Vitis vinifera) using nematicides

Abstract

Two field trials were established to test the efficacy of carbofuran and fenamiphos against root-knot nematode [Meloidogyne javanica (Treub.) Chitwood] and citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans Cobb.) in sultana grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.). Single applications of nematicide (10 kg a.i./ha) in November were compared with multiple applications of lower dose rates (2 x 5 kg a.i./ha and 4 x 2.5 kg a.i./ha) throughout the growing season. Root-knot nematodes and citrus nematode populations in the soil were reduced by all treatments. Citrus nematode was controlled by as little as one-quarter of the recommended dose rate for other pests, that is, 2.5 kg a.i./ha compared with 10 kg a.i./ha, which is the recommended dose for control of root-knot nematode in tomatoes. Yield increases at the citrus nematode site were observed in the fourth harvest after initial nematicide application when carbofuran at 10 kg a.i./ha gave significant yield increases. Fenamiphos at 10 kg a.i./ha increased the yield of root-knot nematode infested grapevines in the second harvest after initial treatments. Some phytotoxicity was indicated by reduction in cane weights where carbofuran at 2 x 5 kg a.i./ha and fenamiphos at 10 kg a.i./ha were applied to citrus nematode infested vines.