how to get rid of nematodes on arrowwood viburnum shrub

How to Get Rid of Nematodes on Your Arrowwood Viburnum Shrub

If you’ve noticed that your arrowwood viburnum shrub is looking a little lackluster lately with stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor flowering, there’s a good chance it could be suffering from a nematode infestation. Nematodes are tiny parasitic roundworms that attack plant roots and can seriously impact the health of viburnums and many other shrubs. Getting rid of nematodes on your arrowwood viburnum will take some effort, but it can be done organically without resorting to harsh chemicals!

In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about identifying and treating nematodes on arrowwood viburnums so you can restore the beauty and vitality of your plant.

Identifying a Nematode Problem

The first step is confirming that nematodes are in fact the issue. Look for these common symptoms:

• Stunted growth or reduced size of leaves and stems
• Wilt, yellowing or browning of foliage
• Lack of flowers and berries or poor fruit production
• Damaged or rotten roots with knots or galls

You may also notice general decline as the shrub struggles to take in enough water and nutrients due to the damaged root system. Check the roots carefully by gently removing the plant from its container to inspect for signs of nematodes like swelling, lesions, or rotting.

If you confirm nematodes, don’t despair! There are several effective organic control methods we can try.

Organic Nematode Treatments

Nematicides (nematode killers) are available but often contain toxic chemicals. Organic approaches are safer for people, plants, and the environment. Here are some options:

• Neem oil – This natural pesticide has nematicidal properties. Mix it with water according to package directions and drench onto the soil around your viburnum.

• Beneficial nematodes – These microscopic worms prey on harmful nematodes. Apply them early in the growing season and reapply every 2-3 weeks according to label instructions.

• Marigolds – Certain marigold varieties release chemicals from their roots that repel nematodes. Plant them around your viburnum shrub.

• Solarization – Clear plastic sheeting can heat up the soil and kill nematodes. Cover treated areas for 4-6 weeks in summer.

• Crop rotation – Avoid planting other nematode-susceptible plants in the same spot. Rotate between plant families.

For best results, combine several methods like using both beneficial nematodes and marigolds. This overwhelms the harmful nematodes so they cannot develop resistance.

Preventing Reinfestation

Getting rid of your current nematode problem is important, but preventing future infestations is key to keeping your arrowwood viburnum healthy long-term. Here are some tips:

• Inspect new plants very carefully before bringing them home. Nematodes can hitch a ride on new nursery stock.

• Disinfect tools after working in nematode-infected areas to avoid spreading them around your yard.

• Remove any roots, debris or diseased foliage during fall cleanup and dispose of it in sealed bags. Don’t compost anything suspect.

• Improve drainage and aerate soil regularly to discourage nematodes who prefer compact, waterlogged earth.

• Fertilize viburnums with a balanced organic fertilizer to strengthen the plant so it’s less susceptible.

By taking a multipronged approach, checking roots vigilantly, and removing and destroying any reinfested plant parts immediately, you can get nematode populations under control and restore health to your arrowwood viburnum. Be patient, as it can take time to correct extensive nematode damage. But with persistence and care, you can defeat these tiny pests and get back to enjoying the beauty this classic shrub brings to your garden.