Comparison of Single- and Double-chisel Injection Methods for the Control of Rotylenchulus reniformis in Pineapple

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Nematology
• Soil Fumigation Science
• Horticultural Crop Protection

Background:

• Rotylenchulus reniformis (reniform nematode) is a significant pest affecting pineapple cultivation worldwide.
• Effective nematode management is crucial for maintaining pineapple yield and quality.
• Soil fumigation with 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) is a common practice for nematode control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) for controlling Rotylenchulus reniformis in pineapple.
• To compare the effectiveness of single-chisel versus double-chisel application methods for 1,3-D soil fumigation.
• To determine the influence of soil depth and sampling position on nematode control efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Field experiments were conducted in four commercial pineapple fields.
• 1,3-D was applied at 157 liters/ha using either a single chisel (46 cm deep) or two chisels (41 cm deep).
• Soil samples were collected from three depths (0-15, 16-30, 31-45 cm) and three positions (center of bed, plant line, interbed area) before and 45 days after fumigation.

Main Results:

• Both single-chisel and double-chisel applications of 1,3-D demonstrated comparable efficacy in controlling R. reniformis.
• Satisfactory nematode control (79-83% reduction) was achieved in three of the four commercial fields.
• The highest level of control was observed at the deepest soil depth (31-45 cm), nearest the injection points.
• Nematode control in the interbed area was generally lower compared to other sampling positions.

Conclusions:

• Single-chisel application of 1,3-D is a viable and potentially advantageous method for managing reniform nematodes in pineapple.
• The effectiveness of 1,3-D fumigation is influenced by soil depth, with deeper applications yielding better results.
• Further research may explore optimizing injection depth and chisel configuration for enhanced nematode suppression across diverse field conditions.