Alice Springs nematode workshop
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) is encouraging Alice Springs residents, gardeners and growers to roll up their sleeves and learn how to protect their plants at a nematode workshop this April.
The free community workshop will be held this Sunday, 19 April from 11am to 2pm at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden, with hands‑on demonstrations to help local gardeners, property owners and growers identify and manage plant‑parasitic nematodes.
DAF has partnered with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and AUSVEG to bring leading experts to Alice Springs for the workshop.
DAF nematologist Dr Melanie Ford said the workshop is an opportunity for locals to learn about nematodes and how plant‑parasitic ones can affect plant health.
'Not all worms in your garden are helpful. Some microscopic nematodes can cause plants to become wilted, stunted and unhealthy,' Dr Ford said.
'Increasing soil biodiversity is really important and the best way to manage problematic nematodes.'
Dr Ford said recent field work in Central Australia has confirmed multiple root‑knot nematode species are impacting local gardens, community spaces and commercial operations.
'We’ve identified 3 species affecting a wide range of plants in the region, from vegetables like tomatoes and zucchini to fruit crops such as citrus, mulberry and grapes. Common garden weeds can also act as hosts for root‑knot nematodes,' she said. 'Through this workshop, we want to help people build healthy soil and learn to recognise nematode problems.'
Community members who suspect nematode damage in their plants are encouraged to inspect roots for abnormalities and contact the DAF plant pathology team for testing and advice.
For more information on nematodes, go to the Northern Territory Government website.
