Tagetes Ground Control

Harmful nematodes are a persistent threat in many horticultural soils, causing significant damage to crops and leading to lower yields and reduced quality. Tagetes patula ‘Ground Control’ offers a proven, eco-friendly solution for growers aiming to suppress lesion nematodes 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.

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.

Crop rotation and soil health: 
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.