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Slow Decline (nematode - Tylenchulus semipenetrans)

The nematode causing this disease attacks the roots. Symptoms associated with the presence of nematodes are wilting, lack of vigor, poor fruit production, small fruit size, and poor response to watering and fertilization. Poor drainage, excess salt, improper watering and damage caused by other soilborne organisms will affect trees in much the same way as the citrus nematode.

Positive diagnosis requires laboratory analysis of root and soil samples, which are obtained following specific sampling guidelines. Losses caused by the citrus nematode in heavily infected orchards can be reduced by applying nematicides to the soil. The table of citrus nematode action thresholds can be used as a guide to determine whether nematode populations warrant chemical controls.

When establishing a new orchard, avoid old sites known to be infested. Soil should be sampled before establishing a new orchard to determine if parasitic nematodes are present in damaging numbers. Ideally, nematode-free plants should be used when establishing new orchards, i.e. grown in containers or in fumigated nursery soil.

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