SHORT PRE-SOWING TREATMENT OF POTATO TUBERS WITH LOW TEMPERATURE TO SUPPRESS <i>Globodera rostochiensis</i> INVASION
Nematode Globodera rostochiensis is considered one of the most damaging potato pest which causes significant yield losses, and its population increases progressively, especially at small private farms due to use of sensitive varieties and improper crop rotation. We studied the effect of exposing seed potato tubers of Nevskiy variety to low temperature (+5 °С for 6 days, 2 hours each day) before sowing. The treated tubers were planted into soil infected with Globodera rostochiensis at the rate of 21 cysts per 100 g, and the yield structure elements and quality of production obtained were evaluated. It was shown the treatment stimulated plant growth and development, increased the biomass of both above and underground parts in plants, and increased the commercial yield. It also improved the quality of yielded tubers, in particular the starch and vitamin C contents increased. Besides, the number of nematode males decreased resulting in lower ability of larva to complete living cycle in potato roots.