Also called roundworms, nematodes are a big issue in warm climates. Root-knot nematodes cause small, round lumps on the roots of a crop. Other types, although hard to see, cause plants to wilt and/or yellow and grow more slowly than you’d expect. Maintaining healthy, rich soil is one way to keep them out, so we recommend implementing cover crop rotation. Marigolds also come in handy, since they contain a chemical that deters root-knot nematodes. Plant resistant varieties or use the power of the sun to solarize your garden area under a sheet of plastic.
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