Cotton Root-Knot Nematode Management Using Velum Total on the High Plains of Texas

The loss of Temik 15G for nematode management in cotton has been costly to the Southern High Plains of Texas. Root-knot nematodes infest over 40% of the acreage, particularly the lighter textured soils (Wheeler et al. 2000, Starr et al. 1993). Cotton lint losses for this region, in the absence of nematode control, are estimated at 26% (Orr and Robinson, 1984). In the absence of Temik 15G, other tools are necessary. It may be possible to improve profitability in the presence of root-knot nematode, using the new product called Velum Total from Bayer. Based on a two study, managing southern root-knot nematodes using Velum Total applied in-furrow at cotton planting provides an opportunity to achieve good cotton lint yields. All Velum Total treatments were significantly better than the untreated check.