Abstract Six crucifer species as potential cover crops, Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata line C-101), turnip (Brassica rapa cv. Norfolk), radish (Raphanus sativus), wild rocket (Eruca vesicaria), wild cabbage (Moricandia moricandioides) and white mustard (Sinapis alba), were tested for susceptibility to Meloidogyne arenaria race 2, M. incognita race 1 and M. javanica. Experiments were conducted under glasshouse conditions at 22-28°C for 2 months after inoculation of plants with eggs and second-stage juveniles. All crucifers were infected by Meloidogyne spp. The nematode and crucifer species significantly influenced the severity of root galling and nematode reproduction. Among the plants tested, turnip was the most suitable host for all three Meloidogyne spp. as indicated by severity of root galling and nematode reproduction. The least suitable hosts were wild rocket for M. arenaria, radish for M. incognita and white mustard for M. javanica. The reproduction fitness of M. javanica was greater than that of M. arenaria race 2 and M. incognita race 1 on all plants.