Fruit Growers News July 2025

Nematodes Don’t Stand a Chance with TELONE™ by Teleos Soil Fumigant

3 minute read

Managing nematodes and improving crop health begins in the soil

THE PROBLEM: NEMATODES 

(Sponsored) Did you know that in the United States alone, the economic impact of nematodes amounts to an $8 billion annual loss? Nematodes are tiny parasites, but they can take a significant toll on your crops by stunting growth, leading to poorer plant health and reduced yields. And because nematodes are so small, by the time you realize you have a problem, it’s probably already too late. That’s why it’s vital to test your soil before planting—this is especially crucial for orchards and orchard replant where trees last for decades. 

THE SOLUTION: TELONE BY TELEOS SOIL FUMIGANT

So, how can a grower defend against nematodes? Simple—before planting, prep the soil using TELONE™. TELONE™ is a pre-plant soil fumigant for controlling all major species of nematodes, including root-knot, lesion, dagger, stubby-root, ring, and cyst. TELONE™ works by targeting destructive nematodes at the source, creating a zone of protection around roots in the first 6 to 8 weeks of growth.  TELONE™ is injected into the soil as a liquid and immediately converts to a gas. It then moves throughout the soil profile without requiring water or incorporation for movement, and can be row-applied or broadcast, for maximum application flexibility. Unlike contact nematicides, TELONE™ completely dissipates before anything is ever planted, meaning there are zero residuals and the product never comes into direct contact with your crops. 

THE BENEFITS OF USING TELONE 

  • Greater efficacy compared with contact nematicides
  • Application flexibility—can be applied at-plant, broadcast, in-row and at bedding up
  • Helps manage nematode-transmitted diseases and viruses
  • Proactive approach to crop protection
  • Earlier, more uniform crops
  • Allows you to plant a wider range of rootstocks and varieties
  • Protects yields and profits
  • Zero residuals/never touches crop

USING A TELONE + CHLOROPICRIN BLEND FOR A ONE-TWO PUNCH  

Depending on your location and crops, you might want to consider using Chloropicrin in addition to TELONE™. Chloropicrin is an effective tool in managing soilborne diseases because of its direct fungicidal and bactericidal activity against soilborne pathogens. When used together, TELONE™ and chloropicrin provide maximum application flexibility and can be customized based on the specific needs of the crop and soil. Your TELONE™ Specialist at Teleos will work with you to analyze your soil, understand your specific areas of concern, and create a custom integrated pest management plan tailored to your specific needs and budget. 

TELONE AND SOIL HEALTH

Plant parasitic nematodes can disrupt plant root systems, impair nutrient uptake, causing stunted growth and reduced crop performance. Healthy roots improve nutrient and water uptake, leading to more robust plants, improved quality, and increased crop yields. When plants establish healthy root systems, overall soil health flourishes. 

  • Enhanced nutrient uptake: By protecting roots from nematode damage, TELONE™ allows plants to efficiently absorb nutrients, resulting in healthier and more vigorous growth.
  • Improved water use efficiency: With intact root systems, plants are better equipped to uptake water, even during times of limited water availability. This allows growers to use less overall water as compared to untreated crops.
  • Lasting effects: Healthier plants hold moisture in the soil longer and allow beneficial microbes to flourish long after harvest. This contributes to a cycle of healthy soil with less need for tillage, lessening the threat of soil erosion.  

SHIFTING THE SOIL MICROBIOME, NOT STERILIZING THE SOIL

One common misconception is that TELONE™ sterilizes the soil, eliminating beneficial microorganisms. However, genetic research shows that TELONE™ doesn’t sterilize but rather shifts the soil microbiome in ways that promote plant health. Using previously unavailable genetic sequencing, new data demonstrate how TELONE™ helps to rebalance soil microbial communities by suppressing pathogenic nematodes while allowing beneficial microbes to repopulate the soil after treatment. 

Fumigation with TELONE™ temporarily disrupts soil biology, but beneficial microorganisms recover quickly, often resulting in a more balanced and resilient soil ecosystem. This natural rebalancing process is key to fostering long-term soil health. TELONE™’s targeted action minimizes harm to non-target organisms, ensuring that soil microbial diversity remains intact, which is crucial for sustained plant productivity and soil fertility.

CONCLUSION

Maintaining soil health while managing nematode pressure is crucial for achieving optimal crop production. Prepping the soil with TELONE™ provides a targeted solution for controlling plant parasitic nematodes, leading to healthier root systems, enhanced water and nutrient uptake, and ultimately, higher yields and better-quality crops. 

To learn more about how TELONE™ can be the star of your integrated pest management plan, contact your local TELONETM Distributor or visit www.teleosag.com to connect with a TELONETM Specialist at Teleos. Remember, there’s no coming back from a poor start!

TELONE™ and Teleos Ag Solutions™ are registered trademarks of Teleos Ag Solutions, Inc. TELONE™ by Teleos is a federally Restricted Use Pesticide. Always read and follow label directions.

© 2025 Teleos Ag Solutions