EVALUATION OF DAMAGE AND INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR TWO LESION NEMATODE SPECIES IN CARROT AND WHEAT SYSTEMS

Our main goals are (1) to help carrot and wheat growers correctly identify lesion nematode populations in their field to species and to develop effective ways to manage each species following an integrated approach; (2) to collaborate with carrot growers, wheat growers, and extension faculty at various universities across the nation to deliver the findings of this proposal to growers. To accomplish these goals, we have developed four specific objectives: 1. Determine reproductive behavior and damage thresholds of P. penetrans and P. neglectus in carrots and wheat in a micro plot study. 2. Develop integrated management strategies for lesion nematodes in carrots and wheat. a. Evaluate the efficacies of selected chemicals, biologicals, and cover crops on both root lesion nematodes in the growth chamber and farmer's fields. b. Determine the effects of crop rotation on these two nematodes species in micro plot studies.