Battling Pepper Plant Pests Naturally: The Science Behind Paecilomyces lilacinus

Maria Gomez grows organic peppers on her small plot of land in the green bubble of California’s central valley and as the demand for her produce increases so do the problems. Erosion had become an alarming problem in this area of Central Florida; her once productive pepper fields were struggling due to nematode attacks, pests that feed on roots hence resulting in stunted growth and low production. Chemical pesticides had never been an option for Maria and other farmers who are practicing sustainable agriculture. That is when she made the acquaintance of a natural one – Purpureocillium lilacinum, erstwhile Paecilomyces lilacinus.

Understanding the Problem: Nematode Infestations

It is a type of roundworm that is quite small and is usually found in the soil; it feeds on the roots of all manner of crops, which affects the efficiency by which the plant can take in nutrients and water. To farmers like Maria for instance these pests may mean total loss of capital. Most of the conventional chemical treatments are toxic to good soil Microbes and result in toxic residues thus alien to organic production.

Free-living biological nematodes play an important role in the biotic environment but pose a problem when pathogenic species are involved. A farmer who decides to use organic farming would like to have a solution to the pest problem that does not Harm his soils or cost him his certification.

Another piece of information about the organism is found in the Science of Purpureocillium lilacinum.

Purpureocillium lilacinum is a naturally existing saprotrophic fungus present in soil with capability of parasitic nature on nematodes. When applied to infested soils, this fungus becomes fixed to the surface of nematode eggs, invades the shells and proliferates within the eggs which hatched, thus inhibiting further development. This type of biocontrol ranges are an eco-friendly and efficient means of managing the nematicides.

Purpureocillium lilacinum is used in two products which include NEMA PROMAX and NEMA PRO. These are easy to apply, friendly to bio-control organisms and effective for a wide range of nematode problem species. Their usage is consistent with the philosophy behind nematode organic pest control so that farmers such as Maria can be able to protect their crops without negating their stewardship of organic farming. Continue reading to know more about nematodes organic pest control​. 

Maria’s Journey to Recovery

Maria’s first strategy in dealing with her nematode problems was to determine the level of infestation. Laboratory studies in soils also showed high levels of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). With this knowledge she adopted NEMA PROMAX as part of the pest management plan.

Maria used NEMA PROMAX through the drip irrigation system which helped her apply the bio-nematicide evenly across the fields out of which some of the fields are shown and described below. It was therefore applied at the initial planting time in a bid to control nematodes that have not yet reproduced to large numbers. In several weeks, Maria promoted a healthier root system and plants vigor. By mid season she was able to see her pepper plants growing which were strong and healthy and she expected good yield.

Broader Implications: Lessons for Other Farmers

Maria’s success and the positive outcome point to the possibility of using bio control measures such as Purpureocillium lilacinum against nematodes. For farmers dealing with similar challenges, here are some actionable steps:

• Soil Testing and Diagnosis: Determine nematode species and their abundance by using soil samples. Preventive control is important as it enables control once the problem is identified in its early stage.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Integrate the biocontrol products including NEMA PROMAX and crop rotation, cover cropping and organic matter.
• Proper Application: In using bio-nematicides such as NEMA PRO, follow the direction indicated on the label. The best result is obtained in case with a consistently applied concentration across an entire irrigation system.
• Monitor and Adjust: Nematodes should be checked periodically as well as the health of plants. Modify applica- tion frequency and possibly add further IPM measures depending on the situation.

A Sustainable Future

The story of Maria is a portrayal of the challenges experienced by many farmers and underlines that new science-based approaches are need in organic farming. It not only helped her preserve her pepper crop but also helped her reaffirm her conviction about sustainability farming.

Biocontrol for farmers is not just a strategy against pests, but hope for change-the ultimate transition to a fertilization-free reality with Purpureocillium lilacinum biocontrol. In this case, nature has provided the levers to shield the crops and the ecosystems as a means of sustaining the agriculture project.