Suppression of clover cyst nematode population by the use of plastic mulch in kimchi cabbage cultivation fields

Field experiments were conducted on a Heterodera trifolii infested Kimchi cabbage field in Jungsun, Korea in 2015 (autumn) and 2016 (spring) to investigate the influence of black and transparent plastic mulch as an approach to suppress the nematode population. Initial and final populations of H. trifolii were compared. Both mulches resulted in different final populations of total cysts, cysts with eggs, and eggs/cyst. In 2015, total cysts and cysts with eggs from transparent plastic mulch were significantly lower compared to black plastic mulch and bare soil. However, eggs/cyst showed no significant differences between both mulches. Furthermore, in 2016, all mulches resulted in decreased final populations. Interestingly, eggs/cyst from both mulches and bare soil were significantly lower than 2015. The study thus demonstrated that all plastic mulches could effectively suppress H. trifolii populations but transparent mulch is more effective.