Know your field’s nematode pressure history. The above-ground symptomatology associated with nematode damage can be similar between southern root-knot nematode and reniform nematode infestations. Southern root-knot nematode infestations can be identified by the presence of root galling in cotton seedlings as well as in mature plants, and are often observed in sandier soil classes. In comparison, reniform nematode prefers silt loam soils and does not produce galls on the roots, making it more difficult to identify at the field level without collecting and submitting a soil sample to a diagnostic laboratory. If a cotton field has a history of heavy nematode infestations, be prepared to treat with a nematicide.

Rotate crops to minimize risk of nematode-related damage. Planting continuous cotton increases your odds of yield-decreasing nematode pressure. Rotating to corn minimizes the risk of reniform nematode populations. Crop rotation to peanuts or grain sorghum helps minimize southern root-knot nematode populations.

Be cognizant of each field’s soil class. Nematode species have soil class preferences. Know the species you are trying to control.

Be ready to treat for nematodes. If nematodes are present, treatment recommendations call for an initial application of Vydate^® C-LV insecticide/nematicide over the top at a rate of 17 fl oz/A to cotton in the second to fifth true leaf stage of growth. Alternatively, two applications of Vydate^® C-LV can be made at a rate of 8.5 fl oz/A following the planting of nematicide-treated seed. The first application should be made at the second to fifth leaf stage of growth followed by a second application at the same rate seven to 14 days later.