DAMAGE RESEARCH WITH P. PENETRANS IN ASPARAGUS PLANTS

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Nematology
• Plant Pathology

Background:

• Plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus penetrans), are known to inhibit asparagus growth and reduce crop yield.
• Quantitative data on yield loss in asparagus due to varying levels of P. penetrans infestation is limited.
• Understanding nematode impact is crucial for effective asparagus cultivation and disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the maximum yield loss in asparagus at high P. penetrans infestation levels.
• To establish the tolerance limit of asparagus to P. penetrans.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a granular nematicide in mitigating yield loss caused by P. penetrans.

Main Methods:

• Field experiments were conducted over two years on sandy soils in The Netherlands.
• Different infestation levels of P. penetrans were established in selected fields.
• Asparagus yield (plant number, quality, financial return) was assessed in relation to nematode infestation.
• The impact of a granular nematicide (Vydate 10 G) application was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Maximum yield loss reached 12%, equating to a potential financial loss of €7,000 per hectare.
• Yield reduction was observed even at low P. penetrans infestation levels, preventing the calculation of a reliable tolerance limit.
• Application of Vydate 10 G nematicide effectively prevented yield loss.
• Post-harvest P. penetrans populations were lower than expected, suggesting asparagus may actively control the nematode.

Conclusions:

• Asparagus yield is sensitive to P. penetrans, with losses occurring at low infestation levels.
• Asparagus plants may possess an inherent ability to control P. penetrans populations.
• Nematicide application can effectively protect asparagus yield from P. penetrans damage.