POTENTIALITY OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN NEMATODE CONTROL - A REVIEW

In the search for alternatives to chemical control of nematodes and with consideration for resource-poor farmers, the potential nematicidal value of a number of plant parts, by-products, and residues, and plant interculture with other crop plants, have been studied. In order to find out their nematicidal properties, the plant materials have been tested by in-vitro, pot and field trials by extracting or incorporating the materials as soil amendments, seed treatments and/or bare-root dip treatments. Root exudates of certain plants have also exhibited nematicidal activity. However, the mode of action of the materials on nematodes is not understood. The beneficial effects of natural phytochemicals reveals a promising area of non-chemical nematode management, but further work on the plant-based nematicides is needed.