Healthy root systems
Protected roots take up water and nutrients better, especially in the dry season.
Nematicides range
Nematicides: healthy roots for vigorous crops
Invisible to the naked eye, nematodes weaken roots and reduce yields. Protect your vegetables, bananas and pineapples from planting onwards.
The basics
What is a nematicide?
Plant-parasitic nematodes are tiny worms that live in the soil and feed on roots. Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne) cause characteristic galls on the roots; others, such as Radopholus in banana, create lesions that weaken the anchorage of the plants.
A nematicide reduces nematode populations in the root zone. Depending on the product, it is a chemical active ingredient, an antagonistic micro-organism or a plant-based soil amendment. Nematicides are usually applied to the soil before or at planting, alongside crop rotation and the use of clean planting material.
Benefits
Why choose our nematicides
Biological options
An antagonistic fungus and neem cake complement chemical solutions in integrated programmes.
Targeted application
Treatment focused on the root zone, at planting or in the nursery, where it matters.
Catalogue
Our nematicides in Ghana
BonAgro's range in Ghana does not include nematicides at the moment. Our advisers will help you choose a suitable solution for your fields.
Talk to an adviserAlways read the label before use. Product information is given for guidance only; the label of the product authorised in your country always prevails.
Good practice
Application tips
Confirm that nematodes are present: dig up a few declining plants and check the roots for galls, lesions or few fine roots.
Use clean planting material raised in nematode-free substrate.
Rotate with less susceptible crops such as cereals to reduce soil populations.
Apply granular nematicides to moist soil and incorporate them into the root zone.
For biological products, add organic matter and keep the soil moist.
Strictly respect the waiting period before planting after a soil fumigant.
Sustainability
Resistance management
Nematodes become resistant less often than insects, but treatments can lose efficacy after repeated use on the same field, because soil micro-organisms break some active ingredients down faster. An integrated strategy remains the key.
- Alternate chemical and biological solutions from one season to the next.
- Combine crop rotation, fallow or service crops and regular organic matter inputs.
- Avoid growing susceptible crops on the same field for several cycles in a row.
- Clean tools and equipment so infested soil is not carried from one field to another.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about nematicides
Our advisers will point you to the right solution for your crop.
Talk to an adviserHow can I recognise a nematode attack?
The symptoms look like water stress: stunted plants, wilting in the heat of the day and yellowing, often in patches. Dig up a few plants: galls or lesions on the roots confirm the diagnosis.
When should I apply a nematicide?
Usually before or at planting, to protect the young roots. Some products allow maintenance applications during the crop cycle: follow the label instructions.
Do biological nematicides work?
They act more gradually than chemical products and give their best results when used preventively, in moist soil rich in organic matter, as part of an integrated programme.
Why must I wait before planting after a fumigant?
Soil fumigants release gases that are toxic to all plants. A ventilation period, given on the label, is essential before sowing or planting; a germination test shows whether any residue remains.
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