ABSTRACT
Among the biotic stress factors in the cultivation of tuberose, plant-parasitic nematodes are one of the major constraints. Root-knot (Meloidogyne spp.) and foliar (A. besseyi) nematodes are considered as the most devastating nematode pests of tuberose. An infestation of nematode affects the quantity and quality of flowers. Severe distortions due to foliar nematode in the above-ground parts of tuberose induce floral malady, and the affected flower often becomes unmarketable. Root-knot nematodes typically produce root galls or swelling, and the infected plant suffers maximum when Fusarium-Meloidogyne concomitantly develops disease complex conditions. Nematode problems of tuberose are difficult to control because of the non-availability of effective nematicides, targeted control of harmful nematodes in the subterranean habitat, long duration of cropping period, and adaptive biology of nematodes. Several attempts have been made for the control of root-knot nematodes by application carbofuran, vesiculararbuscular mycorrhiza (VAM), oilcakes of neem, pongamia, and castor either alone or in combination with Purpureocillium lilacinum (PL) and combined application of PL + Trichoderma harzianum under disease complex conditions. The adoption of resistant/tolerant cultivars of tuberose has been found effective for the control of foliar nematode, but managing root-knot in tuberose is still challenging. Integration of several approaches helps to reduce the nematode infestation and to harvest quality flowers.
