Ludhiana, June 6 -- Scientists urge use of nematode-free seedlings, soil solarisation and organic amendments; tomato, cucumber, capsicum and brinjal among crops most vulnerable to infestation

The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has cautioned vegetable growers about the increasing incidence of root-knot nematodes in net houses and poly houses, warning that the microscopic soil-borne pests can cause substantial losses in yield and crop quality if left unchecked.

With protected cultivation becoming increasingly popular in Punjab, crops such as tomato, cucumber, capsicum and brinjal are particularly vulnerable to nematode infestation. While insect-proof structures help reduce damage from major insect pests, continuous cultivation of su...