Control harmful nematodes with Tagetes patula

Harmful nematodes are a persistent threat in many agricultural soils, causing significant damage to crops and leading to lower yields and reduced quality. Takii’s Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’ offers a proven, eco-friendly solution for growers aiming to suppress lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus penetrans) naturally. Developed specifically for this purpose, ‘Ground Control’ not only controls nematode populations but also enhances soil health and supports biodiversity, making it an ideal addition to sustainable growing practices.

Vegetables, Flowers
Chris Matthijsse
Head of Sales

Key benefits of Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’
 

  • Powerful nematode suppression: multi-year research by Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has demonstrated that ‘Ground Control’ is highly effective in reducing populations of lesion nematodes. Comparative studies show that it outperforms other Tagetes varieties like Tagetes erecta and Tagetes minuta, giving growers an optimal choice for nematode management. 
  • Improves soil health: by adding organic matter to the soil, ‘Ground Control’ improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and promotes soil biodiversity. This not only benefits the current crop but sets up healthier soil conditions for future planting cycles. 
  • Supports biodiversity: above ground, Tagetes ‘Ground Control’ attracts beneficial insects, promoting a balanced ecosystem. This additional biodiversity can help reduce pest pressure on subsequent crops, creating a natural form of pest management.


Economic benefits for growers 

By controlling nematodes naturally with ‘Ground Control’, growers can reduce their reliance on chemical treatments, which are increasingly restricted and costly. Studies show that fields treated with ‘Ground Control’ produce healthier plants with better resilience against pests and diseases. Improved soil quality and increased organic matter lead to higher yield potential and better crop quality, directly impacting profitability. For crops such as potatoes, carrots, and seed onions, growers report a visible increase in marketable yield after integrating ‘Ground Control’ into their rotation plan. 

Crop rotation and soil health: long-term benefits 

Lesion nematodes are especially problematic in sandy soils, reclaimed peat, and dune sands, where they can thrive and damage a wide range of crops. Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’ acts as an excellent rotation crop that breaks the nematode cycle, providing a “cleaning” effect in the soil. This is particularly valuable for high-value crops that are susceptible to nematodes, such as potatoes, lilies, strawberries, and seed onions. By planting ‘Ground Control’ in rotation, growers can protect sensitive crops while enriching their soil for the long term. 

1
/
3

Cultivation tips for optimal results 

To get the best results with Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’, follow these best practices: 

  • Sowing rate: 5-10 kg of seed per hectare.
  • Sowing period: sow between mid-May and mid-August, with optimal results achieved by sowing between mid-June and mid-July.
  • Sowing depth: plant at a depth of 0.5 to 1 cm on a moist surface to ensure good germination.
  • Nitrogen requirement: apply 50-80 kg of nitrogen (N) per hectare to support strong growth.
  • Weed control: keep the crop weed-free, as weeds can encourage nematode multiplication. 
  • Recommended growth duration: A growth period of at least 100 days is recommended for maximum nematode suppression and organic matter accumulation. 

     

Proven field performance 

Field trials by WUR have shown that ‘Ground Control’ produces up to 120 tonnes of fresh biomass per hectare. This substantial biomass adds effective organic matter to the soil, creating a robust, healthy soil structure that supports plant growth. Over time, this improvement in soil health helps growers reduce input costs, as healthier soil can retain nutrients and moisture more efficiently. 

Availability  

As the exclusive breeder of Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’, Takii ensures high-quality seeds with proven performance. Protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, ‘Ground Control’ provides growers with a certified solution for managing harmful nematodes effectively.  

All about nematodes

Lesion nematodes can affect a wide range of crops, particularly in sandy soils and reclaimed peat areas. For more information on recognising and managing nematodes, visit www.best4soil.eu 

Related articles

All articles