A Cost-Effective Prescription Management Strategy Utilizing Fertilizers and Nematicides to Combat Yield Losses from ROTYLENCHULUS RENIFORMIS on Cotton

The reniform (Rotylenchulus reniformis) nematode can cause substantial yield loss in cotton making a management strategy key in preventing damage and sustaining future profit. The objective of this study was to find a cost- effective prescription management strategy utilizing a combination of fertilizers and nematicides that are readily accessible to growers in order to combat reniform induced yield loss. Field and microplot trials were conducted using the cotton variety DP 1646 B2XF. To mitigate nematode population density, the seed treatment Aeris (Thiodicarb and Imidacloprid) was applied at planting and a foliar application of Vydate (Oxamyl) was applied during the growing season. The fertilizers used in these trails were (NH4)2S04, 28-0-0-5 and KTS (0-0-19); (NH4)2S04 was broadcast, 28-0-0-5 was banded and KTS was a foliar spray. Vydate and fertilizers were applied at pinhead square (PHS) and/or repeated at first bloom. Treatments that used Aeris had no significant reduction on nematode population density. Aeris treatments that were supplemented with a foliar application of Vydate reduced nematode population density. Field tests in 2019 indicated that a combination of Aeris, (NH4)2S04, KTS and Vydate applied at PHS significantly reduced reniform eggs/g of root and significantly increased the root fresh-weight. Future research will evaluate which approach best reduces nematode population density, restores plant health and negates yield loss.