To organic pepper growers, root-knot nematodes are not merely a nuisance, they are a menace to the whole crop and the profitability of the farm. These are minute worms that live in the soil and penetrate the roots of pepper plants and cause galls, stunted growth, wilting, and massive yield losses. The problem of effective control of nematodes is even more challenging since the use of chemical nematicides is not allowed in organic systems. This is the reason why Paecilomyces lilacinus nematode control is a game changer to organic growers all over the world. This is what this potent bio-nematicide is doing to save pepper crops, with real-life farmer testimonies and science to support it, and why it is rapidly becoming the gold standard in organic nematode management.
We will begin with a real life story in the heart of the pepper belt of India. A group of organic farmers in the region of Karnataka suffered catastrophic losses when root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) invaded their pepper fields. Once flourishing plants started to wilt and turn yellow. The farmers had discovered that when they unearthed their crops, their roots were full of swelling, knots, and rot, which are the typical symptoms of nematode infestation. The yields reduced by over 40 percent and the local market was affected as the supply was reduced.
The traditional organic methods such as crop rotation, compost addition, and solarization of the soil assisted, but were not sufficient to control the number of nematodes. The farmers required a remedy which was not only effective but also organic-certified.
Nema pro containing Paecilomyces lilacinus is a naturally occurring fungus that is found in the soil and it attacks the nematodes at their weakest point, the eggs and the juveniles. The fungus has enzymes that enter the eggs of the nematodes and colonize and kill them before they can hatch and attack the roots of the plants.
Nema Pro nematode control does not interfere with the soil ecosystem like chemical nematicides, which may kill other useful beings in the soil.
Agricultural university studies in India and Egypt indicate that Paecilomyces lilacinus as a bio-nematicide can cut root galling by 80 percent and increase pepper yields by 30-40 percent. The fungus does not only suppress the population of the nematodes but also enhances the overall health of the soil, which makes it a favorite among the organic growers.
The Nema Pro having Paecilomyces lilacinus as active ingredient Nematicide product of Novobac has a high concentration of viable spores and is one of the most trusted products in the market. It is a simple product to use: just dilute with water and apply as a soil drench at transplanting, and again every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season.
Paecilomyces lilacinus, the active ingredient, rapidly colonizes the root zone, creating a protective barrier around the roots. This does not only kill nematode eggs but also activates the natural defenses of the plant, which leads to healthier and stronger pepper plants.
The farmers in Karnataka who used Novobac bio-nematicide have given a dramatic turnaround. The nematode galls were decreased, the plants regained their vigor, and the yields became normal in the course of one season. The most amazing thing is? The product did not leave any chemical residues and thus ideal in organic certification and farmers who sell to health conscious consumers.
In crops that have high nematode pressure, Novobac has Nema ProMax, which is a potent adjunct. This is a liquid bio-nematicide that has Burkholderia bacteria that produce natural toxins capable of paralyzing and killing soil nematodes. It has a one-two combination when used with Paecilomyces lilacinus that sends even the hardest infestations back on their heels.
Nema ProMax is used either as soil drench or drip irrigation. It acts fast, usually in a matter of days, and decreases the population of nematodes and provides young pepper plants with a good start. Rotating Paecilomyces lilacinus and Nema ProMax is reported to result in not only improved nematode control but also improved plant growth and fruit quality by farmers who use the products.
Long-term nematode management is not only about the products, but about the system. Karnataka and other organic farmers have discovered that the best way to use bionematicidas is to integrate them with intelligent cultural practices:
Organic growers are creating strong, nematode-resistant farms by combining these practices with frequent applications of Paecilomyces lilacinus and Nema ProMax.
Chemical nematicides are no longer used with a good reason: they interfere with the soil biology, leave toxic residues, and may even cause nematode resistance. Control organico de nematodos using bio-nematicides such as Nema Pro and Nema ProMax, in contrast, is safe, sustainable and effective. These products do not fight nature but rather work with nature so that the soil can be healthy and productive in the future.
These methods are used in growing organic peppers, which command high prices in the market because people are becoming more concerned with the use of chemicals in the production of their food. To the farmers, it does not only imply improved yields, but also increased profits as well as a reputation of quality.
Ramesh, an organic pepper farmer in Karnataka says, I used to lose half my crop to nematodes every year. My fields have recovered since I changed to Paecilomyces lilacinus and Nema ProMax. My plants are more robust, the peppers are larger, and I do not have to be concerned about chemical residues. My clients believe in my product and I have never made more money.”
Organic pepper growers no longer need to have root-knot nematodes spelling disaster to them. Organic nematode control is not only feasible with Paecilomyces lilacinus nematode control, it is practical, profitable and sustainable. Combined with Nema ProMax and smart farming, these products of bio-nematicides provide a very strong solution that not only protects crops but also increases yields and maintains the soil alive and healthy.
When you are all set to defend your pepper crops organically, have a look at Novobac Nema Pro and Nema ProMax Burkholderia Liquid Bio-Nematicide. Your peppers, and your soil, will be grateful to you.
