Hot-water treatments of potted palms to control Radopholus similis
Studies were carried out in Hawaii (US) on the efficacy of hot-water treatments of potted palms (Chamaedora seifrizii and Caryota mitis) to kill Radopholus similis (EPPO A2 list). Results showed that a continuous hot-water drenching (50°C for 15 min) of potted palms or hot-water dipping (50 °C for 15 min) of bare-rooted plants were successful in eliminating all nematodes. But dipping of potted plants at a constant temperature was not sufficiently effective. It is noted that in Hawaii, potting media for palms contain volcanic cinders that allow free movement of water. Treated plants were also observed for possible thermal damage after the treatment. Rapid cooling immediately after heat treatment appears essential to prevent thermal damage. Plants should be water-cooled (ambient temperature) but not air-cooled, as air-cooled palms showed reduced growth and required a longer recovery period.
Sources
Tsang, M.M.; Hara, A.H.; Sipes, B. (2003) Hot-water treatments of potted palms to control the burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis.
Crop Protection, 22(4), 589-593.