Efficacy of organic amendments against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) on bell pepper in a naturally ventilated poly-house

Abstract

Studies were conducted on the effect of organic amendments on plant growth characters and reproduction of Meloidogyne incognita in bell pepper. Organic amendments viz. vermicompost @ 100g/m2, 200g/m2, 300g/m2, poultry manure @ 100g/m2, 200g/m2, 300g/m2 , compost @ 100g/m2, 200g/m2, 300g/m2, and neem cake @ 300g/m2 were used and suitable control was also maintained for comparison. Observations on plant growth characters (shoot and root length, shoot and root weight) and nematode reproduction factors (number of galls per 5g root, number of egg masses per 5g root, nematode population/200 cc soil) and yield kg/plant were recorded. Neem cake @300g/m2 was found to be the best treatment in improving plant growth characters, yield and reducing nematode reproduction on bell pepper.