Ecofriendly management approaches for sugar beet root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne spp. by seed treatment with bio-origin compounds and Oxamyl

Abstract

Egypt's principal sugar crop, sugar beet, is severely affected by root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne ssp., causing significant losses in yields and economic returns. Conventional pesticides are effective in the short term but pose growing threats to human and environmental health. Alternative management strategies, such as quick germination, can help plants escape soil-borne diseases and infestations. This can help prevent diseases from taking hold and spreading throughout the plant population. The study investigated the effectiveness of phytochemical-based seed treatment on sugar beet seeds, using growth regulators Nano-NPK and Oxamyl %24.L at variable combinations. It also examined the reduction of root penetration and damage rates of root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne javanica , on sugar beet productivity and plant growth traits under non-infected or RKN-infected conditions. The use of Nano-NPK against sugar beet root-knot nematode significantly improved germination followed by Nano-NPK% + Oxamyl L 24%, and Nabta-Bio + Oxamyl. Seeds treated with a combination of Nano-NPK and growth regulators showed the best galling reduction percentage. The combined data showed significant variances in female numbers, egg masses, and juvenile root system -1 between the two seasons. Nabta-Bio, Nano-NPK, and Oxamyl treatments significantly reduced female root system -1 , gall index, disease severity, and treatment efficacy. Nabta-Bio + Nano-NPK seed treatment, followed by Nabta-Bio and Nano-NPK seed treatment, achieved the highest records for actual field emergence, plant density, leaves weight, and roots yield. The qualitative reaction of sugar beet technological characteristics showed no significant difference among treatments, except for control treatment. Sugar yield differed significantly between seed treatments, suggesting a phytochemical-based approach could be an effective, environmentally friendly solution for managing RKN and developing bio pesticides to manage pests sustainably. Seeds treated with growth regulators, Nano-NPK, and Oxamyl 24% show enhanced growth and protection against soil-borne diseases. These treatments promote quick germination, strengthen root systems, and improve plant health, enhancing disease resistance. The study suggests that a phytochemical-based approach could be a sustainable solution for managing RKN nematodes and accelerating the development of seed treatment. Seeds treated with growth regulators, Nano-NPK, and Oxamyl 24% show improved growth, protection against root-knot diseases, and enhanced plant health, thereby enhancing disease resistance