Cost-Effective Nematode Control: Why Paecilomyces lilacinus Is Worth It

The High Cost of Nematode Infestations and Chemical Solutions

Nematodes are some of the most tenacious and expensive enemies in the agricultural world. These tiny soil-inhabiting worms, and root-knot nematodes in particular, have been vexing farmers since time immemorial, silently chewing up roots and cutting cucumber to potato and other yields. Historically, farmers have resorted to chemical nematodes control pesticides to curb the pests. However, with the increasing environmental awareness and the ever-rising prices of chemical inputs, a new hero has come to the rescue in the quest to have sustainable and affordable nematode control: Purpureocillium lilacinum, previously Paecilomyces lilacinus.

Chemical Nematicides: A Costly and Unsustainable Cycle

Chemical nematicides were the initial line of defense in decades. They laboured–at least temporarily. However, frequent use, increasing resistance in nematode populations, and evidence of soil and water contamination has compelled both conventional and organic growers to find a better solution. The real price of chemical nematode control pesticides is not only the price per acre, but the damage to soil life in the long-term, the danger to pollinators, and the health of farm workers and consumers. With the tightening of regulations and the increasing demand of organic produce, there has never been a greater need for a safer and more cost effective solution.

Nema Pro: A Natural Solution to Nematode Control

Nema Pro is a soil fungus known as Purpureocillium lilacinum which is a naturally occurring fungus in the soil and is transforming the nematode control game. Its special powers are being noticed by scientists as well as farmers. 

This fungus targets nematodes when they are most vulnerable, the egg. P. lilacinum also has a tremendous effect on nematode populations in the soil through its ability to penetrate the eggshell, colonize the inside, and kill the growing nematode before it hatches. Its advantages do not end there. The fungus also inhabits the root zone and creates a living barrier that prevents new infections and even activates the own immune system of the plant, which makes crops more resistant to stress and diseases.

Real-World Results and Scientific Validation

The efficacy of Nema Pro has been proven by the recent studies of agricultural universities and field trials conducted worldwide. A 2023 study in Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology reported that use of the fungus reduced root galls by up to 80 percent and increased yield by 40 percent in fields treated with the fungus compared to controls. On the other hand, chemical nematicides may kill useful soil organisms and leave residues that are toxic and harmful. But P. lilacinum enhances soil biodiversity and does not leave behind any harmful residues.

The Financial Case for Organic Nematode Control

The economic case to change to organic nematode control​ using Nema Pro is strong. Although chemical nematicides may cost between 80 and 150 dollars per acre per application, and usually require three to five applications per season, bio-nematicides using Purpureocillium lilacinum usually cost only 20 to 30 dollars per acre per application, with two or three applications needed to maintain full-season control. 

Farmers who have already switched say not only that it is cheaper, but that it is more profitable, because their products fetch higher prices in organic and health-conscious markets.

Novobac’s Nema Pro: A Trusted Solution

The Nema pro Nematicide produced by Novobac is one of the most trusted products in the market and it contains a high concentration of viable Purpureocillium lilacinum spores in a convenient formulation. 

The active ingredient is rapidly colonized in the soil once applied, destroying the nematode eggs and juveniles, and safeguarding the plant roots during the growing season. It is used as a soil drench by farmers at planting, and repeated applications should be made after every 30 days when nematode pressure is severe. 

The outcomes are obvious: the population of nematodes can decrease by 90 percent, roots will be healthier, and yields can increase by 30-40 percent. Compared to the cost of chemical substitutes, the product developed by Novobac is a wise investment of growers who want to reduce their expenses without compromising the health of their crops and sustainability.

Nema ProMax: Extra Muscle for Stubborn Infestations

Nema ProMax is a strong addition to the solution of those who have to deal with especially tenacious nematode infestation. Although the main active component is Burkholderia bacteria which paralyzes adult nematodes in 48 hours, Nema ProMax is frequently applied in combination with products based on Paecilomyces lilacinus in a multi-pronged, resistance-proof strategy. This mix aims for nematodes throughout their life cycle, including egg and adult stages, and is particularly useful in cooler soils where fungal activity can be reduced. The growers that apply both products note a quick reduction of the nematode population and resilient, robust crops in fields that have had a history of extreme infestations.

Combining Bio-Nematicides and Sustainable Practices

The effectiveness of Purpureocillium lilacinum and other biological nematodes control pesticides is not only a matter of the products themselves, but also a matter of their place in a larger system of sustainable agriculture. Scholars of major universities underline the necessity to combine bio-nematicides with established cultural techniques. A large percentage of nematodes and their eggs can be killed by solarizing the soil prior to planting, that is, covering wet beds with clear plastic and leaving them there several weeks. Crop rotation that involves planting non-host plants such as corn or beans breaks the nematode life cycle, and compost and organic matter increases good microbes that compete with pests. The combination of these practices and frequent uses of Paecilomyces lilacinus nematicide and Nema ProMax, forms a comprehensive defense that is economical and environmentally friendly.

Sustainable Future of Nematode Management

To most farmers, switching to organic nematode management is not only an economic issue but also a stewardship one. Their decision to use Purpureocillium lilacinum will help them to invest in the health of their soil in the long run, the safety of their workers, and the confidence of their customers. According to one Kenyan grower, using P. lilacinum instead of the conventional nematode-control method reduced his nematode-control costs by 60%, and doubled his market price. My soil is more healthy, my plants are more robust, and I feel better at night when I know that I am doing the right thing.”

Conclusion: Invest in Biology, Reap the Rewards

In a world where every input has to be justified and every acre has to do more with less, Purpureocillium lilacinum is a win-win. It provides dependable, economical nematode management, assists in organic certification and assists farmers in creating a more sustainable future. With chemical nematode control pesticides becoming a thing of the past, the future of nematode control is obvious and it is biological.

To those who are willing to take the leap, Novobac has Paecilomyces lilacinus Nematicide and Nema ProMax Burkholderia Liquid Bio-Nematicide that are proven and cost effective and work with nature, not against it. Purpureocillium lilacinum is not only worth the trouble in the struggle to have healthy crops and healthy soil, it is the key.