Nematodes

Description:
Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and feed on the roots of plants. There are foliar nematodes as well; they live in the stems and leaves of plants. Not all nematodes are pests. Certain species are beneficial, attacking borers, caterpillars, and insect root pests.

Damage:
The pesky nematodes steal nutrients from plants, especially tomatoes and other vegetables, and cause the leaves to turn yellow and new growth to be stunted. Root knot nematodes make the roots stunted and lumpy and they love tomato plants!

Prevention:
Rotating vegetable crops is the best means of prevention. Also, there are nematode resistant varieties of tomatoes, beans and other vegetables available.

Management:
Mild Infestations: First, remove and destroy infected plants. Do not add them to compost. Also, nematodes are susceptible to leaf mold; so, turning decomposing leaves into the soil may help.

Severe Infestations: Soil solarization is an effective means of eradicating almost all little soil borne creatures. If, for some reason, it does not work you may need to contact a pest control professional and see about fumigating the soil. This is a complicated and often expensive procedure. Always apply chemicals according to label directions.