Blackberry Nematode Information – Managing Blackberries With Nematodes

Nematodes, commonly referred to as eelworms, are microscopic worms that feed on plant roots. Most nematodes are harmless and some are even beneficial, but there are a number of others that can do severe damage, especially to a perennial crop such as blackberry. Blackberry nematodes not only affect the vigor of the plant but can also facilitate the introduction of viruses. For this reason, it is important to know how to identify nematodes of blackberries. The following article contains pertinent blackberry nematode information on how to diagnose and control blackberries with nematodes.

Types of Blackberry Nematodes

Root lesion (Pratylenchus) and dagger (Xiphinema) nematodes are the most damaging nematodes of blackberries. Root knot (Meloidogyne) spiral (Helicotytenchus), and ring (Cryconemoides) nematodes may also attack blackberries in certain regions.

Blackberry Nematode Information

Dagger nematode damage results in swelling at the ends of the roots. As with other types of nematode feeding, dagger nematodes increase the likelihood for other diseases such as Verticillium wilt or root rot. General damage from nematodes of blackberries includes spindly canes, stunted plants, and reduced fruit size and yields. Severely damaged root systems will often have galls and be rotted or matted. Foliage may yellow and early leaf drop may occur especially when the weather is hot and dry. Damage from nematodes in blackberries is most severe in light, sandy soils.

Control for Blackberries with Nematodes

Ideally, test your soil for the presence of nematodes prior to planting. Use only clean nursery stock. Choose historically less susceptible cultivars. Practice crop rotation. In the case of nematodes, plant in soil where only grasses or small grains have been growing for 3-4 years. If the soil is infested with nematodes, treat it with an approved pre-plant soil fumigant to reduce the population.