Description:
In biologically grown tomatoes, sweet peppers and cucumbers many plants are lost because of nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). Treating the soil and crop rotation are inadequate as yet in bringing down the nematode population to a level which is not harmful to these fruit vegetables.
The current range of varieties of the vegetables is mostly susceptible to nematodes. Some root stocks are less susceptible to nematodes. However, sometimes they become more susceptible to nematodes at high temperatures, have an increase in the nematode population or/and difficulties at the spot where rootstock and graft connect. Therefore biological growers urgently need a suitable rootstock to increase the growing vigour of the crop and to combat plant loss during cultivation.
Research objectives:
To find a rootstock with a complete resistance to Meloidogyne spp at one or more of the most important fruit vegetables. The rootstock has to combine this a high yield and quality.
Results and products:
- Knowledge about rootstocks of tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet peppers regarding the susceptibility for Meloidogyne spp. and the influence of the rootstock on the nematode population.
- One or more rootstocks for biological fruit vegetables with resistance to Meloidogyne spp. This will result in healthy crops with highs yield and will reduce the risks of biologically growing considerably. |
