Effects of propylene oxide doses on Cyperus and Belonolaimus control and nutrient absorption in tomato

Among the current methyl bromide alternatives under study, propylene oxide has shown potential to control soilborne diseases, nematodes, and weeds in polyethylene-mulched tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Therefore, field trials were conducted to determine the most effective propylene oxide doses against populations for the nematode Belonolaimus spp. and the weed Cyperus spp. and their effect on nutrient uptake. Propylene oxide doses were 0, 190, 380, 570, 760, and 950 L/ha. Data indicated that populations of Belonolaimus and Cyperus rapidly decreased with 570 L/ha of propylene oxide. Propylene oxide doses also affected foliar concentrations of phosphorus and potassium. There was a linear increase of phosphorus concentration as dose increased, whereas potassium concentration increased rapidly after 190 L/ha of propylene oxide. The highest tomato yields were obtained with application of 760 and 950 L/ha of propylene oxide.