Other types of nematodes cause plant roots to be stubby and branch abnormally. Nematode-damaged roots often are further destroyed by fungi and bacteria. Examples of plants which are affected by various nematodes are presented in Table 1. Death of nematode damaged plants often occurs during or following drought or cold injury. Extensive root damage has often occurred before above ground symptoms become obvious on established woody plants.
Nematodes are a problem in some nurseries in North Carolina, particularly with field grown plants.
Nematodes should seldom be a problem in bark container mixes. A lack of uniformity in growth rate is often the main symptom. The nematodes not only damage the plants in the nursery, but are transplanted with the shrub into the landscape. Many nurserymen do not recognize nematode damage on their plants. Nursery plants should be grown totally free of parasitic nematodes.