Abstract:
Biofumigation using cruciferous crop residues provides an eco-friendly and sustainable
method for managing Meloidogyne incognita and improving soil health in tomato
cultivation. This study evaluated the comparative efficacy of mustard, cabbage,
cauliflower, and radish residues applied at 0.5%, 1%, and 2% w/w, along with Pochonia
chlamydosporia-enriched farmyard manure (FYM) and a chemical nematicide (Velum
Prime, Fluopyram 34.48% SC). The incorporation of residues significantly (p≤0.05) reduced
nematode infection and reproduction parameters. Among the treatments, mustard at 2%
w/w recorded the highest reduction in gall formation (93%) and egg masses (89%) per
plant. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) distinctly grouped the high-dose biofumigant
treatments (2% w/w) as most effective, with lower infection levels, while 1% applications
also showed statistically similar effects in many parameters. Plant growth parameters such
as height, shoot and root length, and biomass were significantly enhanced by
biofumigation, particularly with mustard at 1% and P. chlamydosporia-enriched FYM. Soil
microbial health was also influenced by the treatments. The highest microbial biomass
carbon (MBC) was recorded in P. chlamydosporia treatment (310 µg/g), followed by 1%
biofumigation treatments (255–285 µg/g), indicating microbial stimulation. However, 2%
w/w application slightly reduced MBC (215–230 µg/g), while Velum Prime recorded the
lowest (180 µg/g), suggesting suppression of microbial activity. Dehydrogenase enzyme
activity followed a similar trend, with the highest activity in P. chlamydosporia (70 µg/g)
and the lowest in Velum Prime (41 µg/g). Overall, 1% biofumigation and P. chlamydosporia
FYM were most effective in suppressing M. incognita and improving plant and soil health,
highlighting their potential for integrated PPN management.
