Application method of local plant material for effective management of Nematode (Nematoda) infestation in tomato (Lycopersicum esculentus) production

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentus) is an important global vegetable crop that contributes to nutrient security. Production of this crop is constrained by many factors of which nematode infestation is observed to be quite threatening. The study aimed to determine appropriate method of application of identified local plant materials for effective management of nematode infestation. This was achieved by conducting field trials at Lower Nursery, Njala campus through establishment of experimental plots of tomato host plant in a factorially Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates in each treatment, repeated twice in the year. The plot size was 18.8 m ×12m with 12 experimental units. The size of each treatment unit was 3m x 4m with 0.6m path between plots and 1 m between replicates. Each plot consisted of 4 rows with 6 plants stands per row. The experimental design consisted of one level of tomato variety (Mongal) and one local plant material which is Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata). Three methods (Pocketing, Ring, and Broadcasting) of identified local plant material were used to determine the appropriate method of application. Data were collected on percentage survival rate, morphological parameters, phenology and yield parameters of tomato host plant respectively. The Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Analysis System (SAS). Differences between mean values of the various parameters were determined by one-way ANOVA analysis while significantly different means were separated using the Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) test at p≤0.05 level of significance. The Ring method of Chromolaena odorata application yielded the most favorable results. These values were the highest among all methods, indicating superior growth and effective management of nematodes.