Nematode Problems in Ornamental Plants

Nematode infestation in ornamental crops affects the quantity and quality of flower yield, reducing flower size, total flower number, and the productive life of the plant. The most devastating nematode genera affecting ornamental crops are root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne species; foliar nematode, Aphelenchoides species; stem and bulb nematode, Ditylenchus species and root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus species. Nematode management in ornamental plants is difficult for many reasons, but practising nematode-free planting material, using cultural methods like a nursery or field cleanliness and application of nematicides can reduce the nematode populations. Hot water treatment of planting material is effective in eliminating nematode infection in vegetatively propagative materials. The use of resistant cultivars and biocontrol agents may also limit nematode damage in the plants. In this chapter, the problem of nematodes in important ornamental plants viz., Chrysanthemum, tuberose, crossandra, orchid, anthurium, gladiolus, gerbera, jasmine, lilies, narcissus, tulip and hyacinth are described, and information on general approaches of nematode management are discussed. 

Keywords: Chrysanthemum, Ditylenchus spp., Economic importance, Gladiolus, Meloidogyne, Pratylenchus spp.