Alfalfa Stem Nematode Symptoms on Alfalfa and Sweet Clover
Alfalfa Stem Nematode (nematode - Ditylenchus dipsaci): The
stem nematode has caused reduced yield in only a few Texas
fields. Symptoms include shortened stems which become
thickened and club-like. Crown buds infested with nematodes
become swollen and distorted and will break off easily. The
stem nematode is active only under cool, moist conditions.
Plants grow normally during warm weather. Nematodes are
introduced into fields by planting poor quality, nematode
infected seed and by allowing run off water from infested fields
to drain into other fields. A rotation with sorghum or small
grains is also beneficial.
May, 1996
