Evaluation of Potential Botanical Extracts against Root-Knot Nematode Infestation in Date Palm

Abstract

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is an important and popular palm tree from the Palmaceae family. The production of date palms is impacted globally by several abiotic and biotic diseases. Globally, plant parasitic nematodes are the remarkable production constraints affecting yield and quality. By producing knots and galls in plant roots, root-knot nematode develops a particular bond with its host. To overcome this particular issue, comprehensive research has been conducted in the research area of the plant pathology department at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. The best control of Meloidogyne spp. was observed in a consortium of treatments with Neem, 10%, which showed the best results in the number of galls, root length, and number of nematodes present in soil. Garlic 2.5% extracts showed the best results for fresh root and shoot weight and dry root shoot and root weight in the presence of nematode. Treatment with 5% Moringa extracts showed the best result for several leaves. Treatment with chili 10% showed the best results for chlorophyll content and treatment with 10% aloe vera showed the best result in plant height. Plant extracts have been demonstrated to have biocontrol capabilities that can be utilized to prevent nematode infestation and reduce plant microbial infections on date palms. Further investigation on biological control strategies should be done on the infected plants as these are eco-friendly.