For maximum effectiveness, cultivate the fallow field during the fallow season. This disturbs nematodes and plant debris and helps control weeds and volunteer plants that may be nematode hosts. Crop rotation may affect root-lesion nematode population numbers, but it will probably not control the pest because of the number of crop and weed species that are suitable hosts for it. If a field has a history of stem nematode infestation, plant it after crop rotation has lowered soil nematode populations. Use only varieties with demonstrated resistance to stem nematode.
Many resistant varieties are available.
This is largely due to the time, effort, and difficulty of screening cultivators against all the root-knot species and races known to infest crops. Before purchasing a variety, discuss the potential effectiveness of cultivar resistance to specific root-knot nematode species with the seed dealer or with a University Farm Advisor. Varieties with resistance to root-lesion nematode are not available, although breeding programs to increase cultivar resistance to nematodes are in progress.