The Punjab Agricultural University warns vegetable farmers about root-knot nematodes, which threaten crops like tomato, cucumber, capsicum, and brinjal in net and polyhouses. The university advises using nematode-free seedlings and soil solarisation to combat these pests effectively.

• 01Root-knot nematodes are microscopic pests that can severely damage crops, leading to reduced yield and quality.
• 02Crops such as tomato, cucumber, capsicum, and brinjal are particularly susceptible to these pests in protected cultivation environments.
• 03Infected seedlings and contaminated soil are primary sources of nematode infestation, which can spread rapidly under favorable conditions.
• 04PAU recommends practices like using nematode-free seedlings and solarising nursery beds to manage infestations effectively.
• 05The optimal temperature range for nematode growth is between 25°C and 30°C, with a rapid life cycle of three to four weeks.

Farmers may experience significant crop losses if nematode infestations are not managed, affecting local vegetable supply and prices.