Management of Root-Knot Nematodes in Vegetable Farming

The GONEM project, funded by PEI under FEADER in PACA, develops integrated strategies to manage root-knot nematodes in conventional and organic vegetable farming. Led by GRAB and Hélène Védie with INRAE and regional partners, it tests agronomic levers—resistant crops, non-host crops (shallots, lamb's lettuce), green manures (sorghum, crotalaria), soil solarisation, and organic matter inputs—across 10 Provence farms. Trials compare GONEM systems to conventional practices at 4 experimental and 6 extended sites. Key indicators include crop development, biomass, soil cover, and the Galling Index (IGn) on an 8-point scale. Results confirm non-host crops and green manures reduce nematode populations; 6–8 root systems ensure reliable assessment. Recommendations include crop rotation, resistance gene rotation, and IGn-based risk mapping. Findings are shared via 10 farm fact sheets and www.grab.fr.