eelworm damage

Eelworms Prevention And Control Tips

Eelworms, also known as nematodes, are small, unsegmented worms that can wreak havoc in gardens and crops. They feed on plant roots and can cause stunted growth and even death of the plants. Unfortunately, eelworms can be difficult to get rid of without the use of chemical pesticides. However, there are several ways to prevent these awful parasites from taking hold in your garden, without the use of toxic chemicals. In this article, we’ll discuss some practical tips on how to prevent eelworms from taking over your garden.

Eelworm Prevention

These pests are microscopic parasites that can damage and reduce the yield of crops. To prevent even more parasites from destroying crops, it is important to implement preventative measures. Unfortunately, if your crops are already afflicted by eelworms, there is very little you can do to save the infected plants. The best solution for already damaged crops is to dispose of them away from your garden. Otherwise, you’ll notice how quickly your plants wither, rot, and die. Nematode eggs can survive for up to ten years if the soil is unchecked. However, preventing these parasites, in the beginning, is the best way to maintain further infestations.

First, rotate crops in the same area every 5-6 years to break the eelworm life cycle. Second, use certified, disease-free seeds when planting to reduce the chance of introducing eelworms to the land. Third, practice soil management techniques such as using crop residues to improve soil fertility and reduce the chance of eelworm infestation. Fourth, use nematicides, which are chemical compounds specifically designed to kill eelworms, if an infestation does occur. Lastly, practice good sanitation and avoid moving soil from one part of the land to another to prevent the spread of eelworms. By following these steps, gardeners can effectively prevent and manage eelworm infestations and protect their crops.

If You Already Have Eelworms

There are a few key steps to take to prevent eelworms from damaging your garden or plants. First, avoid over-watering and keep the soil moist but not wet. Second, purchase plants and soil from reliable sources and check for eelworms before planting. Third, practice crop rotation and keep affected plants away from healthy ones. Finally, remove affected plants or dispose of them in sealed bags away from gardens and other areas with plants. If you follow these steps, you can help reduce the risk of parasites damaging your garden or plants.

It’s also good to keep in mind that these parasites particularly love potato and tomato crops. If you have a designated spot in your yard for these plants, be sure your soil is thoroughly parasite free before planting another crop.

Read Next: How To Prevent Parsley Worms

Cody Medina
Small Scale Farmer
Hi there! I'm Cody, a staff writer here at The Garden Magazine and a small-scale farmer living in Oregon. I've been gardening most of my life and now live on a quarter-acre farmstead with chickens, ducks, and a big garden.