Integrated management of root knot nematode, M. incognita in capsicum, using Paecilomyces lilacinus and organic amendments

Abstract

Pacecilomyces lilacinus bio-formulations were evaluated for their efficacy to manage root knot nematode in capsicum. Three bio-formulations of P. lilacinus were tested in pot experiment and the best formulation was then integrated with farm yard manure (FYM) and neem cake for evaluation in the nematode infested soil under net house and open field conditions. The observations were recorded on plant growth parameters and disease indexes. Pot experiment showed that P. lilacinus 1.50% WP (Liquid) formulation was most effective against root knot nematode and hence was taken to field. In field trials, application of P. lilacinus enriched neem cake @1 t/ha and FYM@ 2.5t/ha as split application at transplanting and 30 days after transplanting was found most effective reducing root galling by 44.52% under net house and by 50.60% under field conditions. Single application of P. lilacinus enriched neem cake @ 1 t/ha and FYM @ 2.5 t/ha at the time of transplanting also reduced root galling by 41.60% in net house and 45.51% under field conditions. Application of P. lilacinus enriched neem cake and FYM was found effective in reducing the damage caused by root knot nematode and can be used for managing this pathogen in an eco-friendly manner.