Effect of Zinnia elegans as a mix-crop along with tomato against Meloidogyne incognita and Rotylenchulus reniformis

Abstract

The nematicidal potential of Zinnia elegans Jacq (1,2,3 & 4 plants per pot) as a mixed crop along with tomato against Meloidogyne incognito and Rolylenchulus reniformis  was studied under greenhouse conditions. The final population of both nematodes and  their rate of build up as well as the root gall index were significantly affected by the  number of Zinnia plants when grown with tomato together. There was a negative correlation between the number of Zinnia seedlings and the final population of both  nematodes. The lowest nematode final population and rate of build up were determined at the highest number of Zinnia plants (4 plants per pot). The highest number of root gall index was found on roots of tomato grown alone (4), while, the lowest one was found on roots of tomato (0.7) grown with four plants of Zinnia. This type of control is considered inexpensive and pollution-free.