Feb 22, 2021

Uncovering an Underground Menace

Nematodes in citrus likely causing root damage

(Sponsored) A recent Florida survey found that almost three-quarters of farmers’ groves have at least one type of plant parasitic nematode present in their soil.

Of the samples analyzed in 2019 and 2020, 72% had plant parasitic nematodes present in the soil at above-threshold levels. Eight species were detected, including, in order of occurrence: dagger, sting, citrus, stubby root, lance, lesion, burrowing and coffee lesion nematodes.

While most growers may expect to find citrus nematodes present in their groves, Michelle Hayes, Corteva territory manager, says that was not the species most often found in a survey of all citrus-producing areas of Florida.

“We analyzed 1,183 samples and found above-threshold dagger nematode populations in 48% of the soil samples,” Hayes says. “The next most-commonly found species was sting nematode at 22%, and then citrus nematode in 8% of samples.”

No matter the species of parasitic nematodes, high populations can damage tree roots, which negatively impacts tree health. Symptoms of parasitic nematode damage includes stunted, swollen roots and above-ground symptoms such as wilting and poor tree vigor.

When nematode feeding causes a reduction in root mass, nutrient and water uptake is similarly decreased. Fewer available nutrients, combined with potential drought stress, can then lead to decreased fruit production, reduced fruit size and fruit drop.

Due to unwanted feeding and scarring on roots, parasitic nematode infestations may also increase root disease fungi, including Phytophthora, resulting in additional tree damage.

Vydate^® L insecticide/nematicide reliably controls plant parasitic nematodes and other key pests. With soil systemic activity for top-down and roots-up control of yield-robbing pests such as nematodes, the product reduces feeding, movement, reproduction and hatching.

What’s more, Vydate L is in the carbamate family, providing increased plant health and giving growers an effective rotational partner in resistance management programs.

In an on-farm study at a commercial citrus grove in Arcadia, Florida, tree roots were analyzed before and after a fall and spring split application of Vydate L.

In the fall of 2019, two applications of Vydate  L were applied through irrigation at a rate of 2 quarts per acre. The same treatment was repeated in the spring of 2020.

A June 2020 analysis of the roots found unimpeded root growth in stark contrast to the tree roots inspected prior to the split application treatment.

Learn more about how Vydate L can help manage nematode populations on your farm at VydateL.Corteva.US.

^{™ ®} Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. Vydate^® L is a Restricted Use Pesticide. Vydate L is not registered for sale or use in all states. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Always read and follow label directions. © 2021 Corteva. CA14-641-020 (03/21) BR CAAG1DELE051