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 Nigeria
Filter by crop to show the products suited to your situation.
Nematicide
BonFosthia 10 GR
Fosthiazate 100 g/kg · GR
Granular nematicide incorporated before planting against root-knot, lesion and burrowing nematodes.
Technical sheet
BonFosthia 10 GR contains 100 g/kg fosthiazate, a non-fumigant organophosphate that acts by contact on soil nematodes and systemically in young roots. It reduces nematode movement, feeding and reproduction during the critical crop establishment phase. Granules must be spread evenly and incorporated into moist soil.
- Active ingredient
- Fosthiazate 100 g/kg
- Formulation
- GR — Granules
- Mode of action
- Contact and root-systemic, non-fumigant
- Mode-of-action group
- IRAC N-1B
- Pack sizes
- 5 kg, 25 kg
Key benefits
- Protects roots during crop establishment
- Ready-to-use granules, no mixing needed
- Non-fumigant: planting can follow on the day of treatment
- Contact and root-systemic action
| Crop | Targets | Rate | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 20 – 30 kg/ha | Spread evenly, then incorporate into the top 10–15 cm of moist soil just before transplanting; one application per crop.Max. applications: 1 |
| Pepper & chilli | Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 20 – 30 kg/ha | Spread evenly, then incorporate into the top 10–15 cm of moist soil just before transplanting; one application per crop.Max. applications: 1 |
| Cabbage | Root-knot nematodes | 20 – 30 kg/ha | Spread evenly, then incorporate into the top 10–15 cm of moist soil just before transplanting; one application per crop.Max. applications: 1 |
| Banana & plantain | Burrowing nematode, Root-lesion nematodes, Root-knot nematodes | 15 – 20 g/plant | Spread around the mat in a 30–50 cm ring at the start of the rainy season, then every 4–6 months; cover lightly with soil.Max. applications: 3 |
Always read the label before use.
Nematicide
BonFluo 400 SC
Fluopyram 400 g/L · SC
Low-rate SDHI nematicide applied through drip or as a drench against root-knot and lesion nematodes.
Technical sheet
BonFluo 400 SC contains 400 g/L fluopyram, which blocks energy production in nematodes (mitochondrial complex II): they are paralysed within hours and stop feeding. Applied to the root zone by drip irrigation or localised drench, it protects roots from transplanting onwards with a very small amount of active ingredient. Fluopyram also has fungicidal activity (FRAC group 7).
- Active ingredient
- Fluopyram 400 g/L
- Formulation
- SC — Suspension concentrate
- Mode of action
- Contact and locally systemic; respiration inhibitor (SDHI)
- Mode-of-action group
- IRAC N-3
- Pack sizes
- 250 mL, 1 L
Key benefits
- Very low rate: 200 g of active ingredient per hectare in vegetables
- Rapid nematode paralysis, root damage stops
- Simple application through drip or as a drench
- Mode of action different from organophosphate nematicides
| Crop | Targets | Rate | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Root-knot nematodes | 0.5 L/ha | Through drip irrigation or as a drench at the plant base, within 7 days of transplanting; a second application is possible 3 weeks later depending on infestation.Max. applications: 2 |
| Pepper & chilli | Root-knot nematodes | 0.5 L/ha | Through drip irrigation or as a drench at the plant base, within 7 days of transplanting; a second application is possible 3 weeks later depending on infestation.Max. applications: 2 |
| Banana & plantain | Burrowing nematode, Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 0.5 – 0.75 L/ha | Directed soil spray around the mats, on moist soil, at the start of the rainy season; repeat after 6 months if needed.Max. applications: 2Spray volume: 300 L/ha |
| Pineapple | Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 0.5 – 0.75 L/ha | Directed soil spray after planting, on moist soil; repeat 4–6 months later if needed.Max. applications: 2Spray volume: 300 L/ha |
Always read the label before use.
Nematicide
Biosolution
BonNema Bio WP
Purpureocillium lilacinum (nematophagous fungus) 1 × 10⁹ spores/g · WP
Biological nematicide based on a fungus that parasitises nematode eggs, for healthier soils in vegetables and fruit crops.
Technical sheet
BonNema Bio WP contains spores of Purpureocillium lilacinum (syn. Paecilomyces lilacinus), a soil fungus that colonises the root zone and parasitises nematode eggs and sedentary females. It progressively reduces populations and fits into programmes combining rotation, organic matter and, where needed, chemical nematicides. Store in a cool place away from sunlight, and do not mix with fungicides.
- Active ingredient
- Purpureocillium lilacinum (nematophagous fungus) 1 × 10⁹ spores/g
- Formulation
- WP — Wettable powder
- Mode of action
- Biological: parasitises nematode eggs and females
- Mode-of-action group
- IRAC N-UNF
- Pack sizes
- 1 kg, 5 kg
- Biosolution
- Suitable for organic programmes, subject to local regulations.
Key benefits
- Lasting biological action on eggs and females
- Preserves soil life
- Suited to organic production programmes
- Ideal complement to rotation and organic amendments
| Crop | Targets | Rate | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Root-knot nematodes | 2.5 – 5 kg/ha | Mix into the nursery substrate or organic manure, then apply to the root zone at transplanting; repeat 4–6 weeks later.Max. applications: 3 |
| Pepper & chilli | Root-knot nematodes | 2.5 – 5 kg/ha | Mix into the nursery substrate or organic manure, then apply to the root zone at transplanting; repeat 4–6 weeks later.Max. applications: 3 |
| Banana & plantain | Burrowing nematode, Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 10 – 20 g/plant | At planting, in the planting hole mixed with organic matter, then around the mats every 6 months.Max. applications: 2 |
| Yam | Yam nematode | 10 – 20 g/plant | At planting, in the mound around the seed yam, mixed with organic matter.Max. applications: 1 |
| Pineapple | Root-knot nematodes, Root-lesion nematodes | 2.5 – 5 kg/ha | Before or at planting, mixed with organic matter, then again 3 months later.Max. applications: 2 |
Always read the label before use.
Nematicide
BonDazo 98 GR
Dazomet 980 g/kg · GR
Granular soil disinfectant for nurseries and vegetable beds: nematodes, soil-borne fungi and weed seeds.
Technical sheet
BonDazo 98 GR contains 980 g/kg dazomet which, on contact with soil moisture, releases a gas, methyl isothiocyanate, active against nematodes, the soil-borne fungi that cause damping-off, weed seeds and some soil insects. It is used before sowing or planting on tilled, moist soil covered with plastic sheeting. An airing period and a germination test are essential before sowing or transplanting.
- Active ingredient
- Dazomet 980 g/kg
- Formulation
- GR — Granules
- Mode of action
- Soil fumigant (releases methyl isothiocyanate)
- Mode-of-action group
- IRAC N-UNX
- Pack sizes
- 1 kg, 5 kg, 20 kg
Key benefits
- Complete soil treatment: nematodes, fungi and weeds
- Healthy, vigorous nursery seedlings
- Granules easy to spread and incorporate
- No persistent residue: the gas dissipates before sowing
| Crop | Targets | Rate | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Root-knot nematodes, Damping-off | 40 – 50 g/m² | On finely tilled, moist soil: spread, incorporate to 15–20 cm, water and cover with plastic sheeting for 7–12 days; air for 7–14 days and run a germination test (cress or lettuce) before sowing or transplanting.Max. applications: 1 |
| Pepper & chilli | Root-knot nematodes, Damping-off | 40 – 50 g/m² | On finely tilled, moist soil: spread, incorporate to 15–20 cm, water and cover with plastic sheeting for 7–12 days; air for 7–14 days and run a germination test (cress or lettuce) before sowing or transplanting.Max. applications: 1 |
| Cabbage | Root-knot nematodes, Damping-off | 40 – 50 g/m² | On finely tilled, moist soil: spread, incorporate to 15–20 cm, water and cover with plastic sheeting for 7–12 days; air for 7–14 days and run a germination test (cress or lettuce) before sowing or transplanting.Max. applications: 1 |
| Onion | Root-knot nematodes, Damping-off | 40 – 50 g/m² | On finely tilled, moist soil: spread, incorporate to 15–20 cm, water and cover with plastic sheeting for 7–12 days; air for 7–14 days and run a germination test (cress or lettuce) before sowing or transplanting.Max. applications: 1 |
Always read the label before use.
Nematicide
Biosolution
BonNeem Sol GR
Neem seed cake (Azadirachta indica) 950 g/kg + Azadirachtin 1 g/kg · GR
Neem cake granules containing azadirachtin that suppress nematodes and termites while adding organic matter to the soil.
Technical sheet
BonNeem Sol GR is granulated neem seed cake (Azadirachta indica) that gradually releases limonoids, including azadirachtin, with nematostatic and repellent effects. It lowers nematode and termite pressure while supplying organic matter and nutrients that boost soil biological activity. Apply as a base dressing before sowing or transplanting, or placed in the planting hole.
- Active ingredients
- Neem seed cake (Azadirachta indica) 950 g/kg
Azadirachtin 1 g/kg - Formulation
- GR — Granules
- Mode of action
- Biological: nematostatic and repellent effect, organic soil amendment
- Mode-of-action group
- IRAC N-UNE
- Pack sizes
- 5 kg, 25 kg, 50 kg
- Biosolution
- Suitable for organic programmes, subject to local regulations.
Key benefits
- Two-in-one: root protection and organic soil amendment
- Repellent effect on termites
- Plant-based, suited to organic programmes
- Improves soil structure and biological activity
| Crop | Targets | Rate | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomato | Root-knot nematodes, Termites | 250 – 500 kg/ha | Work into the soil 7–15 days before transplanting, broadcast or along the planting rows; a second application during the crop is possible.Max. applications: 2 |
| Pepper & chilli | Root-knot nematodes, Termites | 250 – 500 kg/ha | Work into the soil 7–15 days before transplanting, broadcast or along the planting rows; a second application during the crop is possible.Max. applications: 2 |
| Onion | Root-knot nematodes | 250 – 500 kg/ha | Work into the soil 7–15 days before transplanting, broadcast or along the planting rows; a second application during the crop is possible.Max. applications: 2 |
| Cabbage | Root-knot nematodes, Termites | 250 – 500 kg/ha | Work into the soil 7–15 days before transplanting, broadcast or along the planting rows; a second application during the crop is possible.Max. applications: 2 |
| Yam | Yam nematode, Termites | 50 – 100 g/plant | At planting, in the mound or planting hole, around the seed yam.Max. applications: 1 |
Always read the label before use.
No product in this range is listed for this crop. Contact our advisers for an alternative.
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.
Selection guide
Which nematicide should I choose?
Find your field situation to identify the right BonAgro solution, then check the authorised uses on the label.
| Field situation | Timing | BonAgro solution |
|---|---|---|
| Root-knot nematodes on tomato, pepper and other vegetables | Soil application just before or at transplanting, incorporated | BonFosthia 10 GRFosthiazate 100 g/kg |
| Nematodes in tomato, pepper, banana and pineapple, as a liquid application | Through drip irrigation, as a drench or as a directed soil spray | BonFluo 400 SCFluopyram 400 g/L |
| Biological or integrated programmes (vegetables, banana, yam, pineapple) | At planting, mixed with organic matter, then as maintenance treatments | BonNema Bio WPPurpureocillium lilacinum (nematophagous fungus) 1 × 10⁹ spores/g |
| Nursery bed sterilisation (root-knot nematodes, damping-off fungi) | Before sowing, with a compulsory waiting period before planting | BonDazo 98 GRDazomet 980 g/kg |
| Improving the soil and reducing nematode pressure (vegetables, yam) | Incorporated into the soil before transplanting or at planting | BonNeem Sol GRNeem seed cake (Azadirachta indica) 950 g/kg + Azadirachtin 1 g/kg |
| Burrowing and root-knot nematodes of banana and plantain | Around the stools at the start of the rains, as on the label | BonFosthia 10 GRFosthiazate 100 g/kg |
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.
Modes of action in the range
- IRAC N-1B Organophosphates (fosthiazate) BonFosthia 10 GR
- IRAC N-3 Complex II inhibitors, SDHI (fluopyram) BonFluo 400 SC
- IRAC N-UNF Antagonistic fungus (Purpureocillium lilacinum) BonNema Bio WP
- IRAC N-UNX Soil fumigant (dazomet) BonDazo 98 GR
- IRAC N-UNE Plant-based (neem cake, azadirachtin) BonNeem Sol GR
The mode-of-action group is shown on each product's technical sheet.
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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