Summary
This field trial compared the effects of three organic amendments (fresh cow manure, composted cow manure, fresh and pelletized chicken manure) against inorganic fertilisers on root-knot nematode control and soil ecosystem functioning in greenhouse cucumber production. Fresh chicken manure produced the highest yields and most effectively reduced RKN soil populations, whilst all organic amendments enhanced soil food web complexity; by contrast, fast-release inorganic fertilisers simplified the food web. The findings suggest organic amendments offer potential for partial nematode suppression alongside improved soil health, though disease severity did not differ significantly between treatments.
Regional applicability
This Spanish greenhouse study provides relevant evidence for horticultural producers in the United Kingdom managing M. incognita infestations in protected cultivation. The findings on organic amendment effects on soil biology and nematode management are transferable to UK horticulture, though greenhouse conditions and regional nematode ecology should be considered when extrapolating to field-grown crops or cooler climates.
Key measures
Total fruit production (yield), RKN-disease severity, nematode-based indices, RKN abundances in soil, soil food web complexity and structure, soil bacteria-dominated organic matter degradation
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated cucumber production, root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) disease severity, nematode soil abundances, and soil food web structure across six fertilization treatments. Fresh chicken manure achieved the highest yield and greatest RKN suppression, whilst organic amendments increased soil food web complexity compared to inorganic fertilizers.
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