THE PROBLEM
Nematodes are a common pest in tobacco-growing areas. Most tobacco growers also grow sweetpotatoes, and many of the same nematodes affect both crops. Root-knot nematodes are the predominant species, with the guava root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii) being particularly destructive. These enterolobii nematodes are larger, more aggressive feeders that can easily overtake a field. They have a shorter (20-23 day) lifecycle compared to most root knot species (28-31 days), and there are currently no tobacco varieties resistant to enterolobii nematodes. Nematodes attack developing plant roots, resulting in damage that manifests itself in many ways throughout the season.
The root injury caused by enterolobii feeding and root-gall formation inhibit the plant’s ability, resulting in decreased quality and yields. Nematodes can be spread by contaminated farm equipment used for plowing, dirty irrigation water, and planting tobacco in infested soil.
COMMON PESTS
Symptoms of nematode infection in tobacco include:
- Root galls (Galls, knots, or bumps on the roots of tobacco plants)
- Root rot
- Yellowing of plants
- Plant wilt
- Stunting of plants and roots
TELONE™ SUPPRESSES:
- Guava Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii)
- Southern Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita)
- Northern Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne hapla)
- Javanese Root-knot Nematode (Meloidogyne javanica)
- Peanut Root-knot Nematode (Meloidogyne arenaria)
- Granville Wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum)
THE SOLUTION
TELONE™ soil fumigant is the most effective nematode control for tobacco. There are currently no alternatives to match the efficacy of TELONE™ when it comes to managing nematode populations. Soil fumigation provides nematode control throughout the soil where plant roots will grow, allowing growers to prep their soil ahead of planting.
Using TELONE™ before planting does more than just control nematodes—it helps plants to grow better and stronger. By creating a zone of protection around roots in the first 6 to 8 weeks of growth, TELONE™ allows roots to develop in an environment where nematodes are controlled and soil-borne diseases are managed. The result is extensive, healthy root systems capable of producing high-yielding, high-quality tobacco.
BENEFITS
Pre-planting treatment with TELONE™ helps to minimize soil-borne diseases and promote beneficial soil microorganisms, resulting in:- Improved tobacco quality
- Overall reduced inputs (less water, less fertilizer, less pesticides)
- Enhanced soil health
- Zero residuals in harvested tobacco
- Application benefits last through sequential planting of sweetpotatoes
For those tobacco growers who also rotate/grow sweetpotatoes, learn how TELONE™ can also manage nematodes for both crops.
Sweetpotato Crops
Application Method:
Tobacco growers can broadcast apply TELONE™ or apply in-row, offering maximum application flexibility. Ask your TELONE™ Specialist which application method is best for your tobacco fields.Nematode Damage
Examples of nematode damage in tobacco
[photo credits: Adrienne Gorney, NC State Extension]
Guava Root Knot damage on tobacco root
