Disease guide

Infected plants are stunted and develop very few fine roots. Small, round to elongated lesions develop on roots. These lesions may be a cloudy yellow color initially, turning darker brown as the disease develops. Depending on disease severity, infected plants will grow poorly, produce low yields and show symptoms of water and nutrient deficiencies.

Moderate soil moisture and temperatures from 20-30°C (68-86°F) favor growth and development of the lesion nematode. In certain areas a soil pH of 5.5-5.8 favors nematode development. Other factors such as soil type and organic amendments also affect development of the lesion nematode.

Soil fumigation and nematicide treatments offer the best control of the lesion nematode. Rotation with resistant crops such as oats or a summer fallow in hot, dry growing areas may reduce nematode populations.