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Tomato
pests (Northern Namibia)
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Lycopersicon esculentum
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Tomato (English)
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1. Tomato Introduction
Tomato is a very popular vegetable crop
among Namibian farmers but it is also considered the most difficult to
produce. Due to the low rainfall in the area, the crop can only be grown
under irrigation. Yields have always been quite low compared to other countries
and most varieties are not specifically selected for the high temperatures
encountered in northern Namibia. The range of varieties available for most
farmers is quite limited. Many farmers and gardeners grow small plots of
the industrial variety Roma.
2. Tomato pests
A range of minor pests and diseases
have been recorded on tomatoes in Namibia, but two pests are very serious:
Red
spider mite
A complex of mites called "red spider
mites" is the main constraint for growing tomatoes in the north and it
often renders tomato production impossible from the end of winter (July)
until the new rains begin (November-December). Chemical control is necessary
but the advanced chemicals against mites are expensive and not readily
available. A complicated rotation between chemical groups is also needed
in order not to build up chemical resistance.
Root knot nematodes
In most vegetable production in
northern Namibia there is a rapid build up of root-knot nematodes
in the soil. Tomato is severely affected and many other vegetable crops
as well. Crop rotation is not easy because of the wide host range for root
knot nematodes. Nematode resistant varieties of tomato have been tested
and showed a high degree of resistance to nematodes. However, nematode
resistant seed is either expensive or the resistant varieties do no have
the required qualities that consumers prefer. Chemicals against nematodes
are available but seldom used.
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