2011 AU Crops Cotton Research Report Research Report No. 41 March 2012 Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station William Batchelor, Director Auburn University Auburn, Alabama Acknowledgments This publication is a joint contribution of Auburn University, the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, and the USDA Agricultural Research Service and National Soil Dynamics Laboratory. Research contained in the AU crops research reports was partially funded through the Alabama Cotton Commission, the Alabama Wheat and Feed Grains Producers, the Alabama Soybean Producers, and private industry grants. All funding is appreciated. confidentiAl RepoRt Publication, display, or distribution of data contained herein should not be made without prior written approval. Mention of a trademark or product does not constitute a guarantee of the product by Auburn University and does not imply its approval to the exclusion of other products. Printed in cooperation with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) This report can be found on the Web at http://www.ag.auburn.edu/aaes/comm/pubs/researchreports/11cottonrr.pdf Auburn University is an equal opportunity educational institution/employer. http://www.auburn.edu http://www.aaes.auburn.edu CONTENTS Variety trials Editors, Contributors .......................................................................................................................................................4 Breeding Cotton for Yield and Quality in Alabama, 2011 ..............................................................................................5 Alabama On-Farm Cotton Variety Trial Summary, 2011 ................................................................................................6 The Old Rotation, 2011 ....................................................................................................................................................7 The Centennial Year of the Cullars Rotation (circa 1911) ...............................................................................................8 Enhancing Cotton Variety Selection Through On-Farm Evaluations, 2011 ....................................................................9 Mainenance and Expansion of the ACES/Auburn University Website for Alabama Crops, 2011 ................................10 page Crop produCtion Evaluating Pressure Compensating Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI) For No-Till Row Crop Production on Rolling, Irregular Terrain, 2011 ......................................................................................................................... 11 Variable-Orifice Nozzle Evaluation ...............................................................................................................................12 New Technology Fertilizers for Cotton .........................................................................................................................13 Impact of Fertilizer Source and Tillage on Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Cotton Yield ...........................................14 Efficacy of Diamond Insecticide in Preventing Cotton Yield Losses to Tarnished Plant Bugs in North and Central Alabama ................................................................................................................................15 Impact and Management of Fire Ants in the Alabama Cotton Production System, 2011 .............................................16 Demonstration and Validation of a More Rapid Survey Method for Monitoring Stink Bug Damage to Cotton ..........17 Management of Insecticides for Bollworm Control in a Central Alabama Conventional Variety Cotton System ........18 Economic Comparison of LibertyLink, Roundup Ready Flex, and Conventional Systems for Resistant Pigweed Management in Alabama Cotton ........................................................................................19 Cotton Resistance to Root Knot Nematodes and Fusarium Wilt in Alabama, 2011 ......................................................20 Evaluation of Seed Treatment Fungicides for Seedling Disease Management in North Alabama, 2011 ......................22 Evaluation of High and Low Vigor Cotton with Fungicides for Seedling Disease Management in North Alabama, 2011 ..........................................................................................................................................24 Evaluation of Seed Treatment Fungicides for the Control of Seedling Disease on Cotton in North Alabama, 2011 ...26 Evaluation of Three Cotton Varieties Response with Four Nematicides to the Reniform Nematode in North Alabama, 2011 ..........................................................................................................................................28 Efficacy of Experimental Seed Treatments on the Fusarium Wilt Complex in Alabama Cotton, 2011 ........................30 Cotton Variety Trial for Resistance to Verticillium Wilt in North Alabama, 2011 ........................................................32 Evaluation of a Pasteuria sp. on Cotton for Reniform Nematode Management in North Alabama, 2011 ...................33 Evaluation of an Experimental Nematicide, BCS-AR83685, on Cotton for Reniform Nematode Management in Alabama, 2011 ....................................................................................................................................................34 Evaluation of Counter, Temik, and Avicta on Cotton for Root Knot Nematode Management in Alabama, 2011 ........36 Evaluation of Counter, Temik, and Avicta on Cotton for Reniform Nematode Management in Alabama, 2011 ..........37 Contributors Index .........................................................................................................................................................38 irrigation Fertility inseCt ManageMent Weed ManageMent disease ManageMent neMatode ManageMent 4 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion editoRs K. S. Lawrence Associate Professor Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University C. D. Monks Professor and Extension Specialist Agronomy and Soils Auburn University D. P. Delaney Extension Specialist IV Agronomy and Soils Auburn University contRibutoRs K. S. Balkcom Affiliate Assistant Professor and Agronomist Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University USDA-National Soil Dynamics Lab. W. C. Birdsong Regional Agronomist Southeast Alabama Alabama Cooperative Extension System A. Brooke Technician I Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University C. H. Burmester Extension Agronomist Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, Alabama L. M. Curtis Professor and Extension Spec., Emeritus Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University D. P. Delaney Extension Specialist IV Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University D. Derrick Regional Extension Agent Agronomy Row Crops Alabama Cooperative Extension System B. A. Dillard Regional Extension Agent Alabama Cooperative Extension System C. Dillard Extension Specialist Alabama Cooperative Extension System M. P. Dougherty Assistant Professor Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University B. Durham Advisor II, Natural Resources Program Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, Alabama J. P. Fulton Associate Professor Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University W. Griffith County Extension Coordinator Fayette County Alabama Cooperative Extension System K. Glass Advisor III, Natural Resources Program Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University M. H. Hall Extension Specialist, Renewable Fuels Alabama Cooperative Extension System L. Kuykendall Regional Extension Agent, retired Agronomy Row Crops Alabama Cooperative Extension System K. S. Lawrence Associate Professor Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University P. Mask Agricultural, Forestry and Natural Resources, Assistant Director Alabama Cooperative Extension System T. McDonald Associate Professor Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University B. Meyer Agronomist AGRI-AFC Decatur, Alabama C. C. Mitchell Professor and Extension Agronomist Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University C. D. Monks Professor and Extension Specialist Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University D. Moore Director Prattville Agricultural Research Unit Prattville, Alabama S. R. Moore Graduate Research Assistant Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University S. Nightengale Director, Plant Breeding Unit E. V. Smith Research Center Tallassee, Alabama B. E. Norris Director Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center, Belle Mina, Alabama M. G. Patterson Professor Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University T. Reed Extension Specialist Alabama Cooperative Extension System E. Schavey Regional Extension Agent Agronomy Row Crops Alabama Cooperative Extension System D. W. Schrimsher Graduate Research Assistant Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University T. Z. Scott Graduate Research Assistant Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University A. Sharda Graduate Research Associate Biosystems Engineering, Auburn University J. Shaw Alumni Professor Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University R. H. Smith Professor and Extension Spec., Emeritus Entomology and Plant Pathology Auburn University E. van Santen Professor Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University R. Taylor ALFA Eminent Scholar Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology Auburn University H. A. Torbert Soil Scientist USDA-National Soil Dynamics Lab. D. Watts Soil Scientist USDA-National Soil Dynamics Lab. D. B. Weaver Professor Agronomy and Soils, Auburn University R. P. Yates Regional Extension Agent Marengo County Alabama Cooperative Extension System VARIETY TRIALS bReeding cotton foR Yield And QuAlitY in AlAbAmA, 2011 D. B. Weaver A cotton breeding project was initiated at Auburn University in 2001. Most of our work is centered on four primary objectives: (1) development of cotton germplasm or cultivars with improved yield and fiber properties, (2) evaluation and development of cotton germplasm for resistance to reniform nematode, (3) evaluation and development of cotton germplasm for resistance to abiotic stresses, particularly heat and drought, and (4) evaluation of effects of broadening the genetic base of upland cotton. In 2011, we evaluated experimental lines for yield and fiber properties at E.V. Smith Research Center, Plant Breeding Unit, Tallassee, and Prattville Agricultural Research Unit. We tested 150 new lines in preliminary tests at Tallassee, and 30 lines in advanced tests at Prattville. F2, F3, and F4 generations of various populations were grown at Tallassee, and F4:5 progeny rows were grown, selected, and submitted for fiber quality analysis. Crosses were made to create new populations for future work. Most crosses have involved advanced experimental lines from Auburn and other public programs and newly released sources of resistance to reniform nematode. Complete yield and fiber quality data are now available from the 2010 Regional Breeders Testing Network at 11 yield locations and two disease evaluation locations. Auburn experimental lines ranked seventh, fourteenth, fifteenth, and nineteenth in the 33-entry test (30 experimental lines plus three checks). New lines were submitted for evaluation in 2011 with the best lines for 2010 being repeated in the test. We have completed two years of field evaluation of LONREN-derived experimental lines, both susceptible and resistant sister-lines from the same cross. Twenty highly resistant lines (no nematode reproduction) and 20 highly susceptible sister lines (nematodes reproduce freely) were planted in two fields (one with nematodes, one without) at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in both years. Both years gave very similar results. In the nematode-infested field, resistant lines were shorter than susceptible lines. Yield in the nematode-infested field was also significantly reduced in the resistant lines compared to the susceptible progenies. Yields were not different in the nematode-free field. Fiber strength was significantly higher in lines with the RENlon gene (resistant lines) than in lines that did not carry the gene. There were no other fiber quality differences. Nematode populations were greatly reduced in the plots with lines carrying the RENlon gene, giving hope that this germplasm may yet play a significant role in the management of reniform nematodes. The new BARBREN-resistant germplasm was also included in this test and performed very well. Crosses were made to begin the process of developing advanced breeding lines with this resistance source. We have continued to evaluate the cotton germplasm collection for heat tolerance using chlorophyll fluorescence as our assay both in the growth chamber and field. Forty-four wild upland cotton accessions were identified previously. Ten elite accessions were selected from these forty-four based on evaluation in a growth chamber. A field evaluation using chlorophyll fluorescence was conducted on these ten elite accessions and four commercial lines. We found that the top five accessions have higher chlorophyll fluorescence values than commercial lines throughout the growth season under high temperatures. Based on these results, the five elite accessions may have potential to be the genetic materials for development of heat tolerant germplasm. Studies were completed on the effect of germplasm introgression on various traits. Results showed that with few notable exceptions, most traits were negatively impacted with increased exotic germplasm percentage. 6 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion AlAbAmA on-fARm cotton VARietY tRiAl summARY, 2011 W. C. Birdsong and B. A. Dillard In 2011 an on on-farm cotton variety trial was conducted in Barbour, Geneva, and Covington counties and in the Wiregrass region of Alabama. Cotton hybrids were provided by participating seed companies based upon their top choices for the Southeast region of Alabama. The test was replicated at least twice at each site. Each hybrid was Table 1. alabama On-Farm COTTOn VarieTy Trial Variety PHY 499 DP 0R052 DP 1137 DP 1048 DP 1133 DG 11622 DP 1050 DP 0R051 DG 2570 PHY 375 DP 0R020 FM 1740 ST 5458 ST 4288 ST 5288 PHY 565 DP 0912 DP 1034 DP 0949 Barbour Co. lint lb/A 1856 1722 1707 1608 1698 1741 1663 1699 1609 1666 1653 1500 1476 1353 1549 1540 1659 1685 1656 Geneva Co. lint lb/A 1556 1538 1526 1549 1563 1530 1520 1604 1491 1512 1534 1412 1519 1523 1424 1365 1658 — — Covington Co. lint lb/A 1484 1460 1427 1467 1348 1326 1413 1272 1397 1229 1176 1374 1248 1304 1081 1148 — — — Wiregrass lint lb/A 1632 1573 1553 1541 1536 1532 1532 1525 1499 1469 1455 1429 1414 1393 1351 1351 1659 1685 1656 planted the length of the field with a 36-inch row spacing The Covington County trial was on planted on a 38-inch row spacing. A LibertyLink variety trial was conducted in Geneva County on 36-inch spacing. The trial was replicated twice. Table 2. liberTylink VarieTy Trial Variety PHY 499 PHY 565 PHY 375 FM 1845 FM 1733 ST 4145 Average 1489 1346 1314 1284 1130 1068 CROP PRODUCTION the old RotAtion, 2011 C. C. Mitchell, D. P. Delaney, and K. S. Balkcom The “Old Rotation” experiment (circa 1896) is the oldest, continuous cotton study in the world and the third oldest field crops experiment in the U.S. on the same site. The complete history of this experiment was published in 2008 in the centennial issue of Agronomy Journal (C.C. Mitchell, D.P. Delaney and K.S. Balkcom. 2008. A historical summary of Alabama’s Old Rotation (circa 1896): The world’s oldest, continuous cotton experiment. Agron. J 100:1493-1498). Non-irrigated cotton yields in 2011 on the entire test averaged 890 pounds of lint per acre, but irrigated yields CrOp yields On The Old rOTaTiOn, 2011 Plot No. Description Crimson clover dry matter (lb/A) Irrigated 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 No N/no legume Winter legume Winter legume Cotton-corn Cotton-corn + N No N/no legume Cotton-corn Winter legume Cotton-corn + N 3-year rotation 3-year rotation 3-year rotation Cont. cotton/no legume +N Mean 0 2350 1981 2331 2479 0 3467 1855 0 0 3344 0 0 2544 Nonirrigated 0 3637 3727 5020 4003 0 4514 3978 4839 0 5281 0 0 4375 43.5 Wheat bu/A averaged 1,120 in the two-year rotation with high N rates producing more than 1,700 pounds of lint per acre. Irrigation more than doubled corn yields in rotation with cotton. Where only winter legumes (crimson clover) provide the N, cotton yields were about the same as where no legume was planted, and 120 pounds of N per acre was applied at a cost of about $80 per acre. Corn and cotton yields reflect N availability more than any other factor. All crops responded dramatically to irrigation. Corn bu/A Irrigated Nonirrigated Cotton lint lb/A Irrigated 811 993 1026 Nonirrigated 546 960 960 corn corn 513 1159 1043 1241 753 corn soy 803 886 Soybean bu/A Irrigated Nonirrigated 87.7 174.2 46.6 69.8 corn corn 505 1523 1225 1705 1084 184.3 95.6 corn soy 1225 51.9 47.6 148.7 70.7 1122 8 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion the centenniAl YeAR of the cullARs RotAtion (ciRcA 1911) C. C. Mitchell, D. P. Delaney, and K. S. Balkcom The Cullars Rotation (circa 1911) is the oldest, continuous soil fertility study in the Southern U.S. In commemoraton of the 2011 centennial year for this experiment, a comprehensive Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station bulletin was published covering the first 100 years of this experiment. http://www.aaes.auburn.edu/comm/pubs/bulletins/bull676.pdf. A poster was also presented at the 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conference. This study was not irrigated, and yields reflected growing conditions during that season. Note the dramatic yield response by cotton to added K. Highest cotton yields (1,230 pounds of lint per acre) were produced on the treatment receiving a complete fertilizer plus micronutrients (boron). No added P (Plot 2) dramatically reduced wheat and soybean yields more than cotton yields. The Cullars Rotation Experiment is an excellent site to see dramatic nutrient deficiencies compared to healthy crops each year. This type of comparison does not exist anywhere else in the U.S. CrOp yields On The Cullars rOTaTiOn, 2011 Plot A B C 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Treatment description no N/+legume no N/no legume nothing no legume no P complete 4/3 K rock P no K 2/3 K no lime (pH~4.9) no S complete+ micros 1/3 K Clover dry wt. (lb/A) 2361 0 0 0 1205 3056 1869 3053 2015 2699 1191 1565 3316 2203 2230 Wheat bu/A 23.2 30.4 0.0 50.9 16.1 54.7 50.4 38.0 35.1 51.0 0.0 54.2 56.5 60.8 43.5 Corn bu/A 50.4 39.9 0.0 99.8 19.4 88.5 72.3 85.4 34.2 78.0 48.7 63.1 78.0 64.2 63.2 Cotton lint lb/A 877 869 33 886 761 1035 902 1001 66 1101 0 1001 1233 960 975 Soybean buA 44.5 42.9 1.6 48.4 11.0 45.0 42.7 45.9 7.2 41.8 10.2 48.0 44.8 36.6 33.6 Mean of all treatments 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 9 enhAncing cotton VARietY selection thRough on-fARm eVAluAtions, 2011 C. D. Monks, C. H. Burmester, W. C. Birdsong, D. Derrick, W. Griffith, L. Kuykendall, B. A. Dillard, R. P. Yates, and E. Schavey The project Enhancing Cotton Variety Selection in OnFarm Trials was conducted during 2011. Cotton varieties were supplied by Delta and Pine Land, Bayer, Phytogen, and Seed Source seed companies. Conventional varieties were furnished by the University of Arkansas (Fred Bourland), Auburn University (David Weaver), University of Georgia, and LSU (Gerald Meyers). The trials were either Roundup Flex or conventional (also including LibertyLink) varieties and were initiated during April or May of Trial lOCaTiOns and COOperaTOrs County Wiregrass region Cherokee Elmore Lee Macon Fayette Shelby Regional agent William Birdsong† Brandon Dillard David Derrick Greg Pate, Director D. Monks‡ R. Yates Warren Griffith R. Colquitt§ Contact information birdswc@auburn.edu dillaba@aces.edu dderricklalaces.edu E.V. Smith Research Center monkscd@auburn.edu yatesm@auburn.edu griffwg@aubum.edu colguittr@auburn.edu 2011. (See table for trial locations and participants.) Overall, yield results this year were very good. Although the season started out to be very disappointing, conditions in late July and early August produced excellent yields across the state. One exception was at the Lee County location where drought conditions reduced yield severely. Seed cotton samples were not taken at the Fayette County location. Tables are also available for cotton yields and lint quality from the 2011 on-farm trials at www.alabamacrops. com. † Regional Agronomist ‡ State Specialist § County Extension Coordinator 10 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion mAintenAnce And expAnsion of the Aces/AubuRn uniVeRsitY website foR AlAbAmA cRops, 2011 C. D. Monks, C. Dillard, D. Delaney, C. H. Burmester, and P. Mask Funding for information distribution has become very difficult to obtain over the past several years; however, Alabama crop producers have had the forethought to see the need for having access to unbiased, research-based information available for making decisions. Through funding from the Alabama Cotton Commission, Alabama Soybean Producers, and the Wheat and Feed Grains Commission, Alabama Cooperative Extension System agronomists through the work of Jon Brasher, MBA, have been able to develop, maintain, and develop this information link. We have also used funding from Federal eXtension and private companies to complete the funds required for success of this vital unit. Crop producer funding covers approximately 65 percent of the costs incurred for this activity. For the past several years, the alabamacrops.com website has served as the conduit through which much of the agronomic crop research and field information flows. Instead of waiting for information to be sent through the mail that inevitably results in a lag-time for usefulness, we are now able to post information that is instantly accessible for our producers and related industries. The website covers information including, but not limited to, corn, cotton, soybean, forages, small grains, stored grains, hay and pasture weed control, precision ag (linked), soil fertility and soil testing, plant disease diagnostics, enterprise budgets, IPM guides, OVT research information, and on-farm research and development. Web statistics for 2011 indicate that the website had 7,900 visits and 12,500 views. The primary months for activity have been October, November, and December. Recently, www.alabamacorncrops.com was launched and will be further developed over the next year. Without funding from Alabama crop producers, these portals would not be possible. IRRIGATION eVAluAting pRessuRe compensAting subsuRfAce dRip iRRigAtions (sdi) foR no-till Row cRop pRoduction on Rolling, iRRegulAR teRRAin, 2011 J. P. Fulton, M. P. Dougherty, J. Shaw, C. H. Burmester, B. Durham, L. M. Curtis, and A. Brooke This investigation was conducted on a 12-acre field located at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center (TVREC), Belle Mina, Ala. The objective was to evaluate cotton production on rolling terrain irrigated with subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) in conjunction with cover crops. The experimental design was a randomized block design with two irrigation treatments, irrigated (Irr) and non-irrigated (No-Irr), and two cover crop treatments, cover (C) and no-cover (NC), with four replications. Each treatment was replicated four times for a total of 16 plots. Plots measured 27 feet by 1,250 feet with SDI tape installed in 1,250-foot runs on 80-inch spacing (every other row of 40-inch row cotton) and buried at an average depth of 13 inches. Plots receiving a cover crop treatment were planted with rye at a rate of 90 pounds per acre on November 9, 2010. The cover crop was desiccated on April 4, 2011. Cotton, variety ST 4288 B2RF, was planted on April 25, 2011 and replanted on May 16, 2011 in the northwest corner of the field because of standing water following the first planting. Cotton harvest took place on October 6 and 7, 2011 followed by a second picking on October 21, 2011. Accumulated yield per treatment was determined using a weighing system. The cotton yield for 2011 was statistically similar for all treatments (Table 1). The Irr/NC treatment produced the lowest seed cotton yield of 3,073 pounds per acre (2.6 bales per acre) and the No-Irr/NC treatment produced the highest yield of 3,294 pounds per acre (2.7 bales per acre), a small difference of 221 pounds per acre. In the growing months of June, July, and August, there was 58 percent more rainfall in 2011 than 2010. The rainfall during the growing season was the primary factor for similar yields between treatments, and the C versus NC treatments were not significantly different. A second harvest was collected; however, an error occurred collecting data and only three replications were included in the summary. The four treatments produced an additional cotton yield of 157 pounds per acre to 254 pounds per acre (4.6 percent to 7.8 percent). The Irr/NC produced the largest amount (254 pounds per acre) followed by Irr/C (242 pounds per acre), No-Irr/C (191 Table 1. summary OF yield aVerages by TreaTmenT FOr 2010 and 2011† pounds per acre), and No-Irr/ 2010 2011 NC (157 pounds per acre). Treatment Seed cotton Bales Seed cotton Bales lb/A bales/A lb/A bales/A Table 2 presents the overall 2011 yield data. Irrigated / Cover 3,798 3.2 3,124 2.6 In summary, the use of Irrigated / No-Cover 3,811 3.2 3,073 2.6 pressure compensated SDI Non-Irrigated/Cover 2,208 1.8 3,163 2.6 has provided significant Non-Irrigated / No-Cover 2,025 1.7 3,294 2.7 yield benefits in prior years, † Data from all four repetitions. but substantial rainfall during the growing season in Table 2. summary OF The 2011 yield aVerages 2011 minimized the impact by TreaTmenT FOr The COmbined FirsT and seCOnd of irrigation. Also, the C harVesTs† versus NC treatments were Combined Harvest not significantly different as Treatment Seed cotton Bales lb/A bales/A measured in previous years. Irrigated / Cover 3,365 2.8 The treatment that produced Irrigated / No-Cover 3,254 2.7 the highest yield was the NoNon-Irrigated / Cover 3,365 2.8 Irr/NC; the cotton crop actuNon-Irrigated / No-Cover 3,435 2.9 ally was five inches shorter than the Irr/C treatment. † Data from three repetitions 12 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion VARiAble-oRifice nozzle eVAluAtion J. Fulton, A. Sharda, R. Taylor, T. McDonald, E. van Santen, A. Brooke, and M. H. Hall Variable-orifice nozzles, which are being supplied by a few tip manufacturers today, are gaining interest among farmers. Variable-orifice nozzles have larger turndown ratios than do traditional fixed-orifice tips and provide a larger flow range (Figure 1) over typical sprayer operating pressures—in some cases a 1:1 flow to pressure ratio. However, variable-orifice nozzles incorporate more components, including springs for adjustment of the orifice and thereby flow, which make them more difficult to regulate. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of variable-orifice nozzles in support of sitespecific management of nutrients and other liquid inputs. Tip flow testing was conducted using a 60-foot sprayer test-platform (Figure 2). Data collection consisted of two different nozzles evaluated at low, medium, and high flow rates: (1) VariFlow-Medium (Yellow) and (2) TurboDrop Variable-Rate. Placement along the boom was also investigated by placing nozzles at three random locations along the boom. All tests were replicated three times generating 27 tests per nozzle. Tip flow rate was measured using Spot- On Sprayer Calibrators. Recorded flows along with location along the boom were statistically analyzed to evaluate flow uniformity (coefficient of variation, CV) across the boom and detect off-rate errors (+/- 10 percent). The following results have been determined from this study: 1. Nozzle flow uniformity across the spray boom ranged from 5 percent to 13 percent. 2. In many cases individual nozzles performed outside an acceptable flow rate. 3. Lower flow rates tended to generate less uniformity (higher CVs) across the spray boom. 4. As expected and reported by manufacturers of these nozzles, higher variability (CV) across the boom can occur compared to fixed orifice tips. However, the advantage afforded by these new nozzles is the higher attainable flows over normal operating pressures. 5. The SpotOn Sprayer Calibrator (<1gpm model) provided a quick and accurate method for measuring tip flow. A more in-depth analysis is planned for 2012 to better understand the performance of these type nozzles. Figure 1. Illustration comparing available variable orifice nozzles versus a standard fixed orifice, 03 tip. Note the difference in possible flow rates by the variable orifice nozzles over the pressures presented. Figure 2. Sprayer testing platform and illustration of flow data collection. FERTILITY new technologY feRtilizeRs foR cotton C. C. Mitchell, D. Watts, and D. Moore Tests with new technology fertilizers were conducted at Prattville Agricultural Research Unit from 2007 to 2011. A comprehensive Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin has been published summarizing the five-year results since 2007 (http://www.aaes.auburn.edu/ comm/pubs/bulletins/bull677.pdf). Data were also presented at the 2012 Beltwide Cotton Conferences. Mean relative cotton lint yields compared to the standard rate of ammonium nitrate (90 pounds total N per acre per year) are presented in the table. While results varied considerably from year to year, the general conclusions are that the new technology N products, particularly those that result in controlled release N, do not perform any better under most situations than conventional N products such as urea, UAN solutions, ammonium nitrate, and urea-ammonium sulfate blends. Under certain conditions, Agrotain® appeared to reduce N volatilization, but the cost versus the benefits of these products was not evaluated. TreaTmenTs and COTTOn yields On a luCedale s.C.l. aT praTTVille agriCulTural researCh uniT, 2007-2011† Source Total N at planting ‡ 0 0 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 0 0 Total N at sidedressing ‡ lb/A No N CaCl2 Am. nitrate Am. nitrate 4/3 Urea-am. sulfate blend Urea Urea + Agrotain® Urea + Nutrisphere N® UAN solution UAN + CaCl2 UAN + Agrotain® UAN + Nutrisphere N® UAN 2/3 UAN 2/3 + CaCl2 Nitamin Nfusion® Nitamin Nfusion® 2/3 ESN Poultry Litter @ 120 Poultry Litter @ 160 0 0 70 100 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 40 40 70 40 70 120 160 ————————————— No yield; severe drought ————————————— 360 d 300 d 840 b 950 ab — 990 a 950 ab — 700 c 890 ab 920 ab — 890 ab 700 c 860 ab 690 c — — — Year 2007 2008 2009 lb lint/A 400 f 340 f 770 ab — 740 abc 700 abcd 720 abcd — 640 de 740 abc 760 abc — 740 abc 590 e — — — 690 bcd 780 a 390 b — 460 ab 460 ab 560 a 420 ab 470 ab 420 ab 420 ab — 420 ab 400 b — — 460 ab — — 460 ab 510 a 570 c — 1310 ab 1140 b 1200 ab 1150 b 1150 b 1150 b 1270 ab — 1280 ab 1380 a — — — — 1100 b 1110 b 1200 ab 2010 2011 † Sources and treatments changed each year which accounts for missing data for those years when that treatment was not included in test. ‡ N applied at planting as ammonium nitrate (34-0-0). Source variables were all applied as a side dressing at squaring. Values followed by the same letter are not significantly different within year at P<0.05. 14 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion impAct of feRtilizeR souRce And tillAge on gReenhouse gAs emissions And cotton Yield D. B. Watts and H. A.Torbert This study was located at the E.V. Smith Research Center Field Crops Unit located in Shorter in central Alabama, on a Marvyn loamy sand soil. A DP454 BG/RR variety was planted on May 17, 2011, into the no-till and conventional-till system and harvested on October 27, 2011. Nitrogen sources applied were Urea (U), SuperU (SU), Chicken manure (M), Chicken manure + AgrotainPlus (AM), polymer-coated urea (ESN), Urea Ammonium Sulfate (UAS), and Ammonium Sulfate (AS) in the no-till and UAS, U, and AS in the conventional-till at a rate of 90 pounds of N per acre (101 kg N/ha) as a surface application. The N sources were applied on June 16, 2011. Measurements of greenhouse gases started on June 16, 2011 (day of application) and halted approximately one month before harvest (ending before cotton defoliation). Differences in yield between the fertilizer sources were observed. Agrotain with manure (AM) generated the highest yield compared to other nutrient sources applied. Cotton yields during the 2011 growing season were in the order of AM> AS> M> UAS> SU> ESN> U> control. No significant differences were observed among the inorganic fertilizer sources applied. However, compared to the control, AM and AS were the only sources to produce significantly higher yields compared to the control. The treatment with the highest N2O flux was M followed by U> AS> ESN > S> UAS > AM> C. No significant differences were observed between the inorganic fertilizer sources (AS, SU, U, ESN, UAS). However, chicken manure and urea were significantly different from the control treatment. The highest NH3 volatilization occurred in the M treatment followed by AM> Urea> UAS> SU> ESN>AS> control. No significant differences were observed between the inorganic fertilizer sources (AS, SuperU, Urea, ESN, UAS). However, M and AM were significantly different from the control treatment. The treatment with the highest CO2 flux was AM followed by M>AS> U> UAS> ESN> SU> C. No significant differences were observed between the inorganic fertilizer sources (AS, U, UAS, SU, and ESN) and the control. The chicken manure treatments (AM and M) were the only experimental treatments to produce higher CO2 flux compared to the control treatments. No significant differences were observed for CH4 flux. However, all N treatments generally functioned as CH sinks. When comparing no-till vs. conventional-till generally, higher N2O losses occurred in the no-till system, and higher CO2 losses occurred in the conventionaltill system. INSECT MANAGEMENT efficAcY of diAmond insecticide in pReVenting cotton Yield losses to tARnished plAnt bugs in noRth And centRAl AlAbAmA T. Reed and R. H. Smith A study was conducted in north and central Alabama to determine the effects of Diamond insecticide on (1) tarnished plant bug and lepidopteran pests’ damage to cotton and (2) beneficial arthropod populations, including fire ants. Test locations were at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center at Belle Mina, Ala., and the Prattville Agricultural Research Unit. CT 210 conventional cotton was planted at Belle Mina on May 20 and DP174 RF cotton was planted at Prattville on May 9. Test plots were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications per treatment and eight rows per plot (40 to 45 feet long) at both locations. Specific treatments applied at both locations are presented in the table. Sweepnet samples taken 8 to 10 days after chemical applications indicated that in comparison with untreated plots the following chemical treatments reduced predator numbers as indicated in parentheses: Centric 2 ounces (14 percent), Diamond 6 to 9 ounces (25 percent) and Belt 3 ounces + bifenthrin 5 ounces (63 percent). There were no significant differences with respect to fire ant density among treatments at either location. Very low numbers of plant bugs and bollworms resulted in no significant treatment effect on yield in central Alabama. Plant bug numbers were also very low in north Alabama, but bollworm numbers were sufficient to allow significant differences among treatments with respect to both damaged blooms and yield. (see table). eFFeCT OF FOliar appliCaTiOns OF diamOnd and OTher inseCTiCides TO COTTOn On bOllwOrm damage and yields aT belle mina in 2011 Treatments applied 7/19 Centric 2 oz Untreated Untreated Centric 2 oz Centric 2 oz Diamond 9 oz Diamond 6 oz Centric 2 oz Untreated Untreated Diamond 9 oz Belt 3 oz + Bifenthrin 5 oz 7/30 Centric 2 oz Centric 2 oz Diamond 9 oz Diamond 9 oz Untreated Untreated Diamond 6 oz Diamond 6 oz Untreated Untreated Diamond 9 oz Belt 3 oz + Bifenthrin 5 oz Worms in blooms + worm-damaged blooms (%) 7/30 6 0 2 4 5 0 0 2 7 1 3 0 P=0.04 LSD 0.1=4.1 8/19 9.3 8.8 5.3 4.6 3.7 3.7 3.3 2.7 2.6 2.3 1.0 0.3 P=0.00 LSD 0.1=2.7 2063 2847 3449 2932 2557 2675 3219 2766 3469 3297 3258 3826 P=0.00 LSD 0.1=445 Seed cotton lb/A 16 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion impAct And mAnAgement of fiRe Ants in the AlAbAmA cotton pRoduction sYstem, 2011 R. H. Smith, T. Reed, and D. Moore This study was conducted in 2011 to determine the impact of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, on tobacco budworm/bollworm populations infesting cotton. The primary objective of this effort was to quantify the actual value of red imported fire ants (RIFA’s) to producers of Bt and non-Bt cotton varieties. The study was conducted in central Alabama at the Prattville Agricultural Research Unit. The study utilized a split-split plot experimental design. The main plot variables were a normal RIFA population and an insecticide-reduced RIFA population. The fire ant population was reduced by applying insecticides to the soil prior to planting. The study examined the effect of these two population levels on the yields of three varieties (subplots): DP 1050 B2RF (Bollgard II), PHY 565 WRF (Widestrike), and DP 174 RF (non-Bt). The effect of a mid-season pyrethroid overspray (sub-subplot) was also assessed. RIFA population levels were determined in each plot by counting RIFA’s on small sections of frankfurters placed in the plots, and RIFA density indexes were measured using a scale of 0 (= no RIFA’s present) to 3 (= 11 or more RIFA’s present). The RIFA density indexes showed that fire ant numbers increased as the season progressed in the non-treated plots but remained extremely low in the plots treated preplant with insecticides. RIFA density index values indi- cated that over the growing season (three sampling dates) 12.7 times more RIFA’s occurred in the plots with normal RIFA populations than in plots with a reduced population. The percent of worms in blooms + worm damaged blooms on August 9, 2011 was greater (P>F = 0.06) in the plots where fire ants were reduced (1.3 percent) than in plots where fire ants were maintained (0.4 percent) (LSD 0.1 = 0.7). This variable was also greater (P>F = 0.03) in the non-Bt variety (1.8 percent) than in the PHY WRF variety (0.3 percent) and the DP B2RF variety (0.5 percent) (LSD 0.01 = 1.0) . Although budworm and bollworm numbers were low in the test plots, after defoliation the number of worm-damaged bolls in the DP 174 RF (non-Bt) plots with reduced RIFA numbers was 4.3 times greater than in similar plots with normal RIFA numbers. The number of worm-damaged bolls in both Bt varieties was very low regardless of RIFA numbers. Despite having more damaged bolls in half the DP 174 RF plots (those with reduced RIFA numbers) the overall yield of DP 174 RF (3,224 pounds per acre) was significantly greater (P>F= 0.065) than that of PHY 565 WRF (3,005 pounds per acre) and numerically greater than DP 1050 B2RF (3,149 pounds per acre). A mid-season pyrethroid application significantly increased (P>F = 0.025) overall seed cotton yields by 140 pounds (LSD 0.1 = 101). 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 17 demonstRAtion And VAlidAtion of A moRe RApid suRVeY method foR monitoRing stink bug dAmAge to cotton R. H. Smith Stink bugs are the most damaging economic insect of cotton over much of Alabama and the southeastern U.S. Ninety-five percent of the acreage in southern and central Alabama is treated in most seasons. In spite of controls, yield losses were estimated to be 3.5 percent of yield in 2010. Losses in future years may be even greater based on the increased value of cotton. The most accurate sampling method for assessing stink bug damage is to pull and crush quarter-diameter bolls, observing for internal injury. However, this is a very time consuming process when each field requires a sample of 25 to 50+ bolls. Stink bugs do not evenly distribute throughout a field. Many scouts are utilizing a sample size that does not accurately represent the field-wide damage level in making treatment decisions. Research in recent years has indicated that there is a relationship between external boll feeding and internal injury. The objective of the study was to validate a more rapid survey method for assessing stink bug damage to cotton, by collecting a larger sample size of bolls per field and observing for external damage only. Cotton was grown in 12 to 16 row strips planted through a peanut field at the Wiregrass Research and Extension Center, Headland, Ala. Peanuts served to supply a migratory supply of stink bugs into cotton throughout the boll set period (weeks three through seven of bloom). Three methods of scouting and one automatic schedule was utilized as described below. Each scouting method (treatment) consisted of a plot 50 feet long by 12 to 16 rows wide and replicated four times. The following scouting method or treatment was used: 1. Collect 40 bolls (10 per replicate) weekly and observe for external damage only. Base treatment decisions on external damage and apply treatments when more than 25 percent of the quarter diameter bolls have external damage. 2. Collect 40 bolls weekly (10 per replicate) crush all bolls and observe for internal damage. Utilize current method (dynamic threshold) based on week of bloom, in making treatment decisions. 3. Collect 40 bolls (10 per replicate) weekly and observe for external feeding sites. Crush only bolls with external feeding to observe for internal damage. Use the dynamic threshold based only on those bolls with external feeding, if a threshold is reached. Otherwise, open the remaining bolls without external feeding and treat if a threshold is reached. 4. Conduct no surveys. Instead make automatic insecticide applications for stink bugs on the third, fifth, and seventh week of bloom to four replicates. The trial area at the Wiregrass Research Center was monitored weekly for stink bugs, but no data were collected due to the absence of stink bugs in 2011. 18 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion mAnAgement of insecticides foR bollwoRm contRol in A centRAl AlAbAmA conVentionAl VARietY cotton sYstem R. H. Smith Due to the high upfront cost of cotton production, particularly seed and technology, interest continues in a reduced-input conventional cotton system. This is of particular interest to growers in central Alabama who have limited yield potential due to soil type, lack of irrigation, or other factors beyond their control. Insecticide selectivity and management are critically important in a low-input system. The preservation of beneficial insects, including fire ants, is an important component in the economics of such a system. Each economic insect (thrips, aphids, plant bugs, caterpillar species, and stink bugs) must be managed within the framework of the overall objective. This project considers the management of all insect pests but focus on the most optimum manner to deal with the caterpillar (Lepidoptera) species, primarily bollworms and budworms. Some of the newer “worm” chemistry may be most effective if utilized in a preventive manner against caterpillar species that can be predicted based on longterm trends. The objective of the study was to determine the most effective and economic manner to control the July flight of bollworms and caterpillar species in conventional cotton in central Alabama, utilizing the caterpillar insecticide Prevathon (alone or in combinations), under several different timings. Cotton with no insect traits (DP174RF) was grown at the Prattville Agricultural Research Unit for this trial. A small plot, replicated timing study was initiated in July to manage and control the July generation of bollworms. The insecticide Prevathon, alone or a combination of Coragen plus Karate (Besiege), was utilized. The timing of the applications was as follows: July 5, July 12, July 19, and August 4. The bollworm population in the trial was non-detectable to extremely low throughout July and August 2011. Non-economic numbers of bollworms occurred over a three- to four-week period from July 15 to August 10. Bollworm pressure was too low to make any conclusions from this trial in 2011. All treatments were monitored weekly. A season end damage boll count was made and yields were taken, but bollworm damage was too low to make any conclusions from this trial. WEED MANAGEMENT economic compARison of libeRtYlink, Roundup ReAdY flex, And conVentionAl sYstems foR ResistAnt pigweed mAnAgement in AlAbAmA cotton M. G. Patterson, W. C. Birdsong, B. A. Dillard, and C. D. Monks Comparing Roundup Ready Flex, LibertyLink, and conventional cotton variety weed management systems in a glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth (pigweed) environment using significant soil-residual herbicide inputs, timely post applications, and having good activating rainfall for all residual herbicides revealed that Palmer could be managed adequately to provide good yields in all three systems. Soil-residual herbicides for all systems included Prowl + Reflex applied at planting. The conventional variety (CT2010) also received Cotoran at planting. Dual Magnum was applied to both Roundup Flex (DP1048 B2RF) and LibertyLink (FM1845 LLB2) varieties in the respective early post applications of Roundup or Ignite. Staple was applied to the conventional variety early post. Valor + Diuron + MSMA was applied as a layby to all sys- tems. Escaped Palmer amaranth plants were counted and a value for hand weeding these escaped plants factored in the calculations. Although no system controlled 100 percent of the Palmer amaranth season long, economic analysis of the data obtained in 2010 and 2011 revealed that all three systems could be grown for optimum yield and net returns if environmental conditions favor the activation of soil-residual herbicides in a timely manner and residual control is maintained from planting through the layby application. Although the total weed management costs for the Roundup Ready Flex system in this particular trial were more than the LibertyLink or conventional systems, the additional lint produced by the Roundup Ready Flex variety in this particular instance more than compensated for the difference in input costs (see table). reTurn On inVesTmenT aT $0.95 per pOund OF COTTOn linT in 2010 and $1.25 per pOund OF COTTOn linT, 2011 DP1048 B2RF Parameter Herb $/A Hoe $/A Total weed $/A Tech and seed $/A Total costs $/A Lint lb/A Seed $/A Net Return 2010 $53.85 $23.29 $77.14 $65.00 $589.00 1668 $167 $1115 2011 $ 67.83 $ 61.09 $128.92 $ 65.00 $643.00 937 $170 $604 FM1845 LLB2 2010 $57.75 $2.69 $60.44 $28.00 $536.00 1499 $15.0 $1032 2011 $74.88 $ 5.39 $80.27 $28.00 $557.00 607 $128 $269 2010 $62.75 $20.49 $83.28 $ 6.00 $536.00 1331 $133 $854 CT 2010 2011 $ 80.97 $ 30.99 $111.96 $ 8.04 $570.00 638 $136 $298 DISEASE MANAGEMENT cotton ResistAnce to Root knot nemAtodes And fusARium wilt in AlAbAmA, 2011 T. Z. Scott, K. S. Lawrence, K. Glass, and E. van Santen Cotton cultivars were examined to determine their response to pathogens, root knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, causing Fusarium wilt of cotton. The test was located at the E. V. Smith Research Center Plant Breeding Unit, in Tallassee, Ala. Plots consisted of one row, 20 feet long, with a 36-inch row spacing, separated by 6-foot alleys, and was planted in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The set of four test cultivars was evaluated as a group with two control plots within each replicate. All plots were maintained throughout the season using standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Initial plant counts were made on June 9. Wilted plants were counted and removed on July 7, July 28, and August 18, 2011. Three plants per plot were removed on July 27 and root knot nematodes were extracted from the root systems using 0.6 percent NaOCl agitation for four minutes. Re-isolation of the Fusarium wilt fungus, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, was conducted to confirm the presence of the disease pathogen. The remaining live plants were counted and recorded on August 26. Data were statistically analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models procedures as implemented in SAS® PROC GLIMMIX with a negative binomial distribution function for count variables. Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 80.7, 84.9, 95.8, 92.9, 95.6, and 85.2 °F with average minimum temperatures of 52.5, 57.4, 69.3, 72.4, 70.2, and 62.7 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 1.91, 2.22, 2.24, 8.02, 0.64, and 4.9 inches with a total of 19.93 inches over the entire season. Root knot nematode numbers increased slowly this season on the cotton varieties. The standard susceptible cotton variety, Rowden, averaged 241 root knot eggs per gram of root while the M-315 resistant cotton supported 66 root knot eggs per gram of root. Nematode juveniles and eggs extracted from the root systems for all the submissions ranged from a high of 3,315 in FM 1740 B2RF to a low of 18 in PHY 367 WRF. The reproductive potential observed varied widely from highly susceptible to low susceptibilities, depending on the cotton submission. The average percentage of wilted plants for the susceptible, Rowden was 2 percent, with a range from 3 to 0 percent. The fungal pathogen was not isolated from the resistant M -315 cotton but was readily isolated from Rowden. From all the cotton submissions planted, 68 percent were colonized by F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum. Yields ranged from 4,672 to 1,742 pounds per acre for ST 4288 B2F and M-315, respectively. The cotton varieties CG 3787 B2RF, DP 1028 B2RF, PHY 485 WRF, ST 4288 B2F, and ST 5458 B2F produced significantly higher yields than Rowden. COTTOn resisTanCe TO rOOT knOT and Fusarium wilT in alabama, 2011 M. incognita 150 cm3 soil 194 528 205 316 281 544 36 19 185 297 147 431 227 427 26 24 344 14 1.000 270 0.278 0.278 1.000 0.283 0.659 1.000 37 54 66 241 0.696 1.000 161 1.000 0.213 383 1.000 0.637 81 1.000 0.137 1019 1.000 0.681 18 0.609 0.977 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.912 0.985 0.991 0.991 1.000 0.244 1315 0.922 1.000 0.728 119 1.000 0.539 1.000 85 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.300 0.997 0.412 1.000 0.944 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.843 1.000 89 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.282 125 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.362 273 1.000 0.990 1.000 0.222 295 1.000 0.969 3586 2964 4100 3240 3058 3563 3242 2915 3579 4050 2954 4672 3765 4203 1742 2443 1.000 0.397 161 1.000 1.000 3249 1.000 0.158 57 0.989 1.000 4225 1.000 0.537 75 0.999 1.000 3714 0.146 0.012 0.585 0.165 0.978 0.065 0.705 0.925 0.435 0.597 0.991 0.170 0.080 0.982 0.001 0.117 0.013 0.756 0.756 Dunnett’s P-value vs. Rowden M-315 Egg/g of root§ Yield (lb/A) Dunnett’s P-value vs. Rowden M-315 M. incognita Seed cotton Dunnett’s Pvalue vs. Rowden M-315 0.004 0.000 0.025 0.003 0.180 0.002 0.051 0.120 0.032 0.026 0.219 0.003 0.003 0.187 0.000 0.003 0.000 Dunnett's P-value vs. Rowden M-315‡ 0.988 1.000 0.993 0.995 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.998 1.000 0.984 0.992 1.000 0.997 0.975 0.932 1.000 0.852 0.927 0.977 1.000 0.972 0.943 0.999 0.981 1.000 1.000 0.997 1.000 0.998 0.969 0.960 0.995 0.957 Fusarium wilt† Variety % AM 1550 B2RF 0 CG 3787 B2RF 1 DG 2570 B2RF 1 DP 0912 B2RF 1 DP 0949 B2RF 1 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport DP 1028 B2RF 3 DP 1050 B2RF 1 DP 10R052B2R2 3 DP 1137 B2RF 2 FM 1740 B2F 1 PHY 367 WRF 1 PHY 375 WRF 1 PHY 485 WRF 0 PHY 565 WRF 2 ST 4288 B2F 1 ST 5288 B2F 0 ST 5458 B2F 0 M-315 2 Rowden 2 † Percent of wilted plants of the total per plot. Wilted plants were counted bi-weekly for 6 weeks. ‡ Dunnett’s P-value greater than 0.05 indicate significant differences from the susceptible Rowden and the resistant M-315 standards. § Root knot extracted from three cotton root systems collected July 22. 21 22 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion eVAluAtion of seed tReAtment fungicides foR seedling diseAse mAnAgement in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, and B. E. Norris Experimental seed treatments were evaluated for the management of cotton seedling disease in a naturally infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, Ala. The field had a history of cotton seedling disease incidence and was infested by Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium spp., Thielaviopsis basicola, and Fusarium spp. The soil type was a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The seed treatments were applied to the seed by Bayer CropScience. Fungicide treatments were mixed with CaCO3 7 ounces per cwt, Secure 1 ounce per cwt, Cruiser 9 ounces per cwt, and Color Coat Red 1 ounce per cwt, and 2.75 percent RTUPCNB. Water, CaCO3, Secure, Cruiser, and dye also were applied to the non-treated seed treatment at the same rate. Temik 15G (5 pounds per acre) was applied at planting on April 13 in the seed furrow with chemical granular applicators attached to the planter. Plots consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Seedling stand was determined at 30 days after planting (DAP) on May 13. Plots were harvested on September 29. Data were statistically analyzed by GLM and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.10). Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 74.3, 78.8, 91.3, 91.2, 91.6, 80.2, and 73.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 52.2, 58.0, 68.3, 71.4, 68.1, 58.8, and 46.5 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 10.22, 2.53, 3.11, 4.28, 1.15, 3.15, and 1.47 inches with a total of 25.91 inches over the entire season. Seedling disease pressure was high in 2011 due to optimum moisture and cool temperatures. Plant stand was significantly greater in the Apron XL + Maxim 4FS + Systhane 40WP + Dynasty CST seed treatment as compared to the untreated control at 43 DAP. Plant stands were low with 26 to 13 percent seedlings surviving, producing 2.6 to 1.3 plants per foot of row. Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium ultimum, and Fusarium spp. were isolated from the diseased seedlings. Seed cotton yields were significantly increased by all fungicides that increased plant stand. Yields varied by 983 pounds per acre at harvest with an average of 174 pounds per acre average increase of seed cotton produced over all the fungicide treatments as compared to the untreated control. The Apron XL + Maxim 4FS + Systhane 40WP + Dynasty CST seed treatment, which supported the best stand, also produced the highest yield. 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 23 eValuaTiOn OF seed TreaTmenT FungiCides FOr seedling disease managemenT in nOrTh alabama, 2011 No. Seed treatment and rate (oz/cwt) 1 Baytan 30 + Allegiance FL + Vortex FL + SP1020(Emerion) 2 Baytan 30 + Allegiance FL + Vortex FL 3 Apron XL + Maxim 4FS + Systhane 40WP 4 Apron XL + Maxim 4FS + Systhane 40WP + Dynasty CST 5 Apron XL + Maxim 4FS + Systhane 40WP + Dynasty CST + Bion 6 Maxim 4 FS + A16148C + Dynasty 100FS 7 Blind Seed Treatment 8 Vitavax-PCNB + Allegiance FL 9 RTU Baytan Thiram + Allegiance FL 10 RTU-PCNB 11 Allegiance FL 12 Baytan 30 + Allegiance FL+ Vortex FL (w/o insecticide) 13 Control LSD (P ≤ 0.10) Stand/10 ft row† 43 DAP 19.2 ab 15.4 b 13.8 b 26.0 a 17.2 ab 13.8 b 15.0 b 12.2 b 16.4 b 13.2 b 15.0 b 15.6 b 16.4 b 9.04 Vigor 43 DAP 3.0 a 2.6 a 2.4 a 2.8 a 2.8 a 2.6 a 2.8 a 2.2 a 2.8 a 2.6 a 3.0 a 2.2 a 2.8 a 1.02 Skip index 43 DAP 6.6 bc 8.0 abc 7.0 bc 5.6 bc 7.4 bc 8.4 abc 7.8 abc 10.2 ab 4.4 c 9.0 abc 9.6 ab 8.2 abc 12.2 a 4.71 Seed cotton (lb/A) 3581 3135 3459 3660 3366 3096 3342 2676 3433 3387 2976 2647 3055 1020.2 † Stand was the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.10). 24 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion eVAluAtion of high And low VigoR cotton with fungicides foR seedling diseAse mAnAgement in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, C. H. Burmester, and B. E. Norris Three fungicide combinations were evaluated for seedling disease management on high and low vigor ST 4554B2RF cotton seed. The field site has been cultivated in cotton for many years and is an infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research Center near Belle Mina, Ala. The soil is a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The cotton variety ST 4554B2RF was treated by Bayer Crop Science. Plots were planted on April 12 with a soil temperature of 64 °F at a depth of 4 inches and adequate soil moisture. Plots consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Nematode numbers were determined at monthly intervals. Plots were harvested on October 10. Data were statistically analyzed using SAS and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.10). One interaction was observed between vigor and fungicides for the yield parameter. All data are presented for comparisons. Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 74.3, 78.8, 91.3, 91.2, 91.6, 80.2, and 73.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 52.2, 58.0, 68.3, 71.4, 68.1, 58.8, and 46.5 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 10.22, 2.53, 3.11, 4.28, 1.15, 3.15, and 1.47 inches with a total of 25.91 inches over the entire season. Seedling disease pressure was moderate for early planted cotton in 2011. Plant stand at 28 days after planting (DAP) ranged from 2.9 to 1.6 plants per foot of row for the high and low vigor seed, respectively. All three fungicide combinations increased plant stand compared to the control notwithstanding the seed vigor. Similar results were observed at 43 DAP for seedling stand. The low vigor seedling stand was reduced to 1.2 plants per foot of row while the high vigor seed was at an optimum of 2.5 plants per foot of row. The Trilex Advance alone or in combination with the Aeris/Poncho Votivo did protect more seedlings at the 43 DAP counts in both low and high vigor seed. Plant vigor was enhanced in the high vigor seed plots versus the low vigor seed plots although the Trilex Advance + Aeris/ Poncho Votivo was the only fungicide combination that produced a perceptible increase in plant vigor at 43 DAP. The uniformity of the cotton plant stand was improved in the high vigor seed compared to the low vigor seed. The addition of the fungicide also increased cotton stand uniformity again in the Trilex Advance alone or in combination with the Aeris/Poncho Votivo, which averaged 5 feet of row without plants compared to 9 feet in the control. Yield was the only factor with a significant interaction between vigor and fungicide. All fungicides significantly increased yield in the low vigor seed. The low vigor cotton seed yield increased an average of 1,630 pounds over the control for the fungicide treatments. The high vigor seed yield increased an average of 442 pounds per acre for the fungicide treatment. Thus, the response of the high vigor seed to the funigicdes was only 27 percent of that observed in the low vigor seed. The addition of any of the three fungicide combinations significantly improved yield in low vigor cotton seed. 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 25 eValuaTiOn OF high and lOw VigOr COTTOn wiTh FungiCides FOr seedling disease managemenT in nOrTh alabama, 2011 Seed treatment and rate (oz/cwt) High Vigor Untreated control Baytan (0.5) + Vortex (0.08) + Allegiance (0.75) Trt 2 + Trilex Advanced (3.0 +0.75 + 1.64) Trt 3 + Aeries/Poncho Votivo (3.0 + 0.75 + 22 + 12.7) Low Vigor Untreated control Baytan (0.5) + Vortex (0.08) + Allegiance (0.75) Trt 2 + Trilex Advanced (3.0 +0.75 + 1.64) Trt 3 + Aeries/Poncho Votivo (3.0 + 0.75 + 22 + 12.7) LSD (P ≤ 0.10) Untreated Control Baytan (0.5) + Vortex (0.08) + Allegiance (0.75) Trt 2 + Trilex Advanced (3.0 +0.75 + 1.64) Trt 3 + Aeries/Poncho Votivo (3.0 + 0.75 + 22 + 12.7) LSD (P ≤ 0.10) High Vigor Low Vigor LSD (P ≤ 0.10) 7.4 e 18.2 cd 21.0 bcd 16.2 d 7.88 16.1 b 24.4 a 24.9 a 24.7 a 5.68 29.4 a 15.7 b 4.02 5.8 d 11.0 cd 17.4 abc 15.0 bcd 6.98 15.1 b 16.8 ab 22.2 a 21.2 a 5.73 25.4 a 12.3 b 4.05 2.2 c 2.4 bc 2.4 bc 3.4 a 0.35 2.7 b 2.7 b 2.9 b 3.6 a 0.70 3.4 a 2.6 b 0.49 13.8 a 11.4 ab 7.2 cd 8.6 bc 2.89 10.0 a 8.4 a 5.2 b 5.8 b 2.19 4.5 b 10.3 a 1.55 2087 b 3570 a 3491 a 4092 a 628.5 2778 c 3717 ab 3637 b 4089 a 1.4 3800 a 3310 b 263.9 24.8 a-d 30.6 ab 28.8 a 33.2 a 24.4 ab 22.6 ab 27.0 a 27.4 a 3.2 ab 3.0 abc 3.4 a 3.8 a 6.2 cd 5.4 cd 3.2 d 3.0 d 3468 a 3864 a 3783 a 4086 a Stand/10 ft row† 28 DAP 43DAP Vigor 43 DAP Skip index 43 DAP Seed cotton lb/A † Stand was the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.10). 26 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion eVAluAtion of seed tReAtment fungicides foR the contRol of seedling diseAse on cotton in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 S. R. Moore, K. S. Lawrence, and B. E. Norris Selected experimental seed treatments were evaluated to determine their efficacy against early season cotton diseases in north Alabama. The soil was a Decatur silt loam (23 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay) that had a history of seedling diseases. On the day of planting, soil temperature was 64 °F at a 4-inch depth and with adequate soil moisture. All fungicide treatments were applied to the FM1740B2F cotton seed by the manufacturer. For the high incidence disease trial, plots were infested with millet seed inoculated with Rhizoctonia solani, Thielaviopsis basicola, and Pythium ultimum, while for the low incidence disease trial, plots were left naturally infested. Temik 15G (5 pounds per acre) was applied at planting on April 12 in the seed furrow with chemical granular applicators attached to the planter. For each of the low and high disease pressure trials, each plot consisted of two rows, each 25 feet long with 40-inch row spacing, and plots were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Adjacent blocks were separated by 20-foot alleys. Standard herbicides, insecticides, and fertility production practices, as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, were used throughout the season. Stand counts were recorded 28 and 43 days after planting (DAP) to determine stand density and percent seedling loss resulting from cotton seedling diseases. Vigor ratings were taken at 43 days after planting (DAP) to determine over- all health of the plants. Plots were harvested October 10. Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance using the generalized linear models (GLM) procedure, and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference (LSD) test. Seedling disease pressure was moderate for early planted cotton in 2011. At 28 DAP, 79 and 72 percent of all seed planted had emerged within the low and high incidence plots, respectively. Fungicide seed treatments produced cotton seedling stands comparable to the untreated control at 28 and 43 DAP, respectively, in both the low and high disease incidence plots. Cotton seedling vigor at 43 DAP was comparable to the untreated control in both the low and high disease incidence plots. Within the low disease incidence trial, all fungicide seed treatments with the exception of Treatment 7 (Dynasty + Maxim 4FS + Apron XL) produced higher seed cotton yields over the untreated control by an average of 17 percent. Treatment 5 (BAS 5001 2F + BAS 7000 2F high rate + Nu-Flow M-H + Acquire FL) produced significantly higher seed cotton yields over the untreated control. In the high incidence plots, fungicide seed treatments produced yields that averaged 9.1 percent more than the untreated control. Treatments 5 and 6 (Nu-Flow M-H high rate + Acquire FL) produced significantly higher seed cotton yields compared to the untreated control. 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 27 eValuaTiOn OF seed TreaTmenT FungiCides FOr The COnTrOl OF seedling disease On COTTOn in nOrTh alabama, 2011 Low Disease Pressure Seed treatment and rate (mg ai/kg seed) 1 2 Untreated Control BAS 5001 2F (200) + BAS 7000 2F (60) + Acquire FL (50.3) BAS 5001 2F (200) + BAS 7000 2F (120) + Acquire FL (50.3) BAS 5001 2F (200) + BAS 7000 2F (60) + BAS 7000 2F (60) + Nu-Flow M-H (73.125) + Acquire FL (50.3) BAS 5001 2F (200) + BAS 7000 2F (120) + Nu-Flow M-H (73.125) + Acquire FL (50.3) Nu-Flow M-H (260) + Acquire FL (50.3) Dynasty (190) + Maxim 4 FS (6.25) + Apron XL (26.4) Dynasty (190) + Maxim 4 FS (6.25) + Apron XL (26.4) + Nu-Flow M-H (73.125) LSD (P ≤ 0.10) Stand/10 ft row† 28 DAP 29.2 a 43 DAP 27.4 a Vigor‡ 43 DAP 3.0 a Seed cotton kg/ha 3668.6 b 28 DAP 27.6 a High Disease Pressure Stand/10 ft row† 43 DAP 20.6 a Vigor‡ 43 DAP 3.0 a Seed cotton kg/ha 3791 b 30.0 a 23.8 a 3.2 a 4425.8 ab 28.0 a 27.0 a 2.6 a 3999 ab 3 31.6 a 28.8 a 3.2 a 3868.0 ab 29.8 a 22.2 a 2.0 a 3959 ab 4 28.8 a 23.4 a 3.2 a 4287.5 ab 29.4 a 27.6 a 2.4 a 4005 ab 5 37.6 a 32.6 a 31.8 a 26.4 a 3.4 a 3.4 a 4735.5 a 4049.0 ab 33.2 a 28.0 a 30.8 a 24.4 a 2.8 a 2.6 a 4386 a 4396 a 6 7 30.2 a 32.6 a 35.8 a 32.8 a 3.4 a 3.4 a 3652.0 b 4381.3 ab 26.0 a 29.4 a 22.4 a 20.4 a 2.4 a 2.4 a 4144 ab 4066 ab 8 8.92 6.98 0.35 628.53 9.51 10.71 0.79 372.3 † Plant stand based on the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. ‡ Vigor ratings based on a 0 to 5 scale. Numbers within a column followed by the same letter are not significantly different based on Fisher’s LSD at P ≤ 0.10. 28 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion NEMATODE MANAGEMENT eVAluAtion of thRee cotton VARieties Response with fouR nemAticides to the RenifoRm nemAtode in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, C. H. Burmester, and B. E. Norris Three cotton varieties—Stoneville ST 5458B2F, ST4288B2F, and Fiber Max FM1740B2F—were evaluated with four nematicide combinations for the management of the reniform nematode on cotton in an infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, Ala. The field was inoculated with the reniform nematode in May 2007. The soil was a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The cotton varieties were treated by Bayer Crop Science. Plots were planted on May 17 and consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Nematode numbers were determined at monthly intervals. Plots were harvested on October 21. Data were statistically analyzed using SAS and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.10). No interactions were observed between variety and nematicide but all data are presented for comparisons. Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 74.3, 78.8, 91.3, 91.2, 91.6, 80.2, and 73.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 52.2, 58.0, 68.3, 71.4, 68.1, 58.8, and 46.5 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 10.22, 2.53, 3.11, 4.28, 1.15, 3.15, and 1.47 inches with a total of 25.91 inches over the entire season. Nematode disease pressure was moderate in 2011 due to the lack of rainfall in May, June, and August. Initial nematode numbers averaged 1201 vermiform life stages/150 cm2 of soil at planting. Plant stand ranged from 2.6 to 3.2 plants per foot of row with no differences between any treatment and variety. Nematode numbers on average were increasing at 30 days after planting (DAP). The ST 4288B2F variety supported fewer reniform with the nematicides Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 than with Gaucho 600 alone. There were no differences in reniform numbers between the three varieties or four nematicides. The 60 DAP samples were taken during a drought period and numbers of nematodes declined 80 percent over all varieties and nematicides. By harvest numbers had increased fourfold; however, all treatments and varieties supported similar numbers of reniform (P ≤ 0.10). Yields varied by 1,145.7 pounds per acre over all variety + nematicide combinations. Seed cotton yields were 17 percent greater in the ST4288B2F variety compared to ST5458B2F which was 16 percent greater than the FM1740 B2F. Nematicides were ranked as follows: (1) Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600, (2) Poncho Votivo Aeris CMT 4586, (3) Poncho Votivo Aeris, and (4) Gaucho 600. The Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 supported the greatest yields in two of the three varieties. 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 29 eValuaTiOn OF Three COTTOn VarieTies respOnse wiTh FOur nemaTiCides TO The reniFOrm nemaTOde in nOrTh alabama, 2011 Variety and Nematicides ST5458B2F + Gaucho 600 ST5458B2F + Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 ST5458B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris ST5458B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris CMT4586 ST4288B2F + Gaucho 600 ST4288B2F + Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 ST4288B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris ST4288B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris CMT4586 FM1740B2F + Gaucho 600 FM1740B2F + Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 FM1740B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris FM1740B2F + Poncho Votivo Aeris CMT4586 LSD (P ≤ 0.10) Gaucho 600 Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 Poncho Votivo Aeris Poncho Votivo Aeris CMT4586 LSD (P ≤ 0.10) ST5458B2F ST4288B2F FM1740B2F LSD (P ≤ 0.10) Stand† 10 ft. row 31.8 a 29.0 a 29.8 a 28.8 a 26.8 a 27.3 a 29.5 a 33.8 a 30.5 a 31.5 a 32.0 a 28.3 a 7.18 29.7 a 29.3 a 30.4 a 30.3 a 3.3 29.8 a 29.3 a 30.6 a 2.9 30 DAP 869.3 ab 1217.0 ab 907.8 ab 1120.3 ab 1854.0 a 676.0 b 1178.3 ab 1854.0 a 1313.3 ab 1139.8 ab 1332.8 ab 1545.0 ab 1134.02 1345.5 a 1010.9 a 1139.6 a 1506.4 a 582.7 1028.6 a 1390.6 a 1332.7 a 504.7 Reniform per 150 cm3 60 DAP 154.8 a 251.0 a 193.0 a 193.3 a 212.8 a 135.3 a 251.3 a 193.3 a 367.0 a 405.5 a 290.0 a 173.8 a 343.55 244.8 a 263.9 a 244.8 a 186.8 a 161.0 198.0 a 198.1 a 309.1 a 139.5 150 DAP 4268.3 a 4384.0 a 3225.3 a 4500.0 a 4480.5 a 3534.3 a 3901.3 a 3418.5 a 3051.8 a 4635.0 a 3399.3 a 3186.8 a 2003.3 3933.5 a 4184.4 a 3508.6a 3701.8 a 1486.8 4094.4 a 3833.6 a 3568.2 a 1287.6 Seed cotton lb/A 2035 bcd 2079 bcd 2268 abc 2369 abc 2626 ab 2793 a 2552 ab 2643 ab 1795 cd 2109 bcd 1762 cd 1647 d 403.2 2152 a 2327 a 2194 a 2220 a 226 2188 b 2653 a 1828 c 195.8 † Stand was the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.10). 30 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion efficAcY of expeRimentAl seed tReAtments on the fusARium wilt complex in AlAbAmA cotton, 2011 T. Z. Scott, K. S. Lawrence, and S. R. Moore Efficacy of experimental treatments was evaluated for the management of the Fusarium wilt root knot nematode complex on cotton in a naturally infested field on the E. V. Smith Research Center near Shorter, Ala. The field site soil was Kalmia loamy sand soil. All seed treatments were applied to the PHY 565 WRF cotton seed by Syngenta Crop Science. The test was planted on April 28, 2011; soil temperature was 64 °F at a 4-inch depth with adequate soil moisture. Plots consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with a 36-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. Stand counts, plant vigor, and uniformity were counted and rated at 28 days after planting (DAP). Nematode eggs were extracted from three root systems per plot at 40 DAP. All production practices for herbicides, fertilizers, and insecticides were carried out as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were harvested on September 26 with a plot harvester. Monthly rainfall totals for April through October were 1.91, 2.22, 2.24, 8.02, 0.64, 4.9, and 0.98 inch, respectively. Total rainfall over the growing season was 20.91 inches. Average monthly maximum temperatures for April through October were 80.7, 84.9, 95.8, 92.9, 95.6, and 85.2 °F, respectively, and average minimum temperatures were 52.5, 57.4, 69.3, 72,4 70.2, and 62.7 °F, respectively. Nematode disease pressure was ideal for early planted cotton in 2011. Stand counts at 30 DAP indicated that five of the fungicide combinations increased plant stand over treatment 1 (Avicta Duo control). Plant vigor was similar for seedlings in all plots. Plant stand uniformity was also measured and was similar between all fungicide treatments (data not shown). Root fresh weight significantly increased in treatment 4 (Avicta Duo control + A9625, Apron XL 3LS, Maxim 4FS, Systhane 40WP, and Dynasty CST 125FS) and treatment 9 (Avicta Duo control + A9625, A17823, Apron XL 3LS, Maxim 4FS, Systhane 40WP, and ynasty CST 125FS). Root knot counts significantly decreased in treatments 7 and 9. Although root knot per gm of root was measured to show similar population, treatments 4, 7, and 9, which included the experimental A9625, reduced root knot numerically compared to the Avicto Duo standard. All yields among these treatments were similar to that of the Avicto Duo standard. Averaged over all fungicide treatments, however, yields were increased 56 pounds per acre in fungicide combinations compared to the Avicto Duo standard. eFFiCaCy OF experimenTal seed TreaTmenTs On The Fusarium wilT COmplex in alabama COTTOn, 2011 No 1 2 Nematicide AVICTA DUO 4.03 SC Apron XL 3 LS Maxim 4 FS Systhane 40 WP Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS 3 Allegiance-LS Baytan 30 Vortex 3.77 FS Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS Rate Product/A rate unit 0.5 mgai/seed 7.5 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 15 gai/100kgseed 10 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed continued 38.8 a 3.8 a 5.6 a 7122.6 a 1365.2 a 1787 a Plant count† 32.4 b 32.4 b Plant vigor 3.4 a 3.2 a Root fresh weight 5.688 a 7.578 a J2-Root knot 5809.4 a 7338.8 a Root knot/ gm of root 1235.8 a 1035.8 a Yield lb/A 1696 a 1973 a 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 31 eFFiCaCy OF experimenTal seed TreaTmenTs On The Fusarium wilT COmplex in alabama COTTOn, 2011 No 4 Nematicide Apron XL 3 LS Maxim 4 FS Systhane 40 WP A9625 Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS 5 Allegiance-LS Baytan 30 Vortex 3.77 FS A9625 Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS 6 Apron XL 3 LS Maxim 4 FS Systhane 40 WP A9625 Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS 7 Apron XL 3 LS Maxim 4 FS Systhane 40 WP A9625 Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS 8 Allegiance-LS Baytan 30 Vortex 3.77 FS Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Allegiance-LS Baytan 30 Trilex Flowable 9 Apron XL 3 LS Maxim 4 FS Systhane 40 WP A9625 A17823 Avicta Duo 4.03 SC Dynasty CST 125 FS LSD P ≤ 0.05) Rate Product/A rate unit 7.5 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 1 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 15 gai/100kgseed 10 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 1 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 7.5 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 2 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 7.5 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 4 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 15 gai/100kgseed 10 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 15 gai/100kgseed 5 mgai/seed 10 gai/100kgseed 7.5 gai/100kgseed 2.5 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 1 gai/100kgseed 21 gai/100kgseed 0.5 mgai/seed 0.03 mgai/seed 6.31 0.73 2.32 8829.7 1381.9 778.2 32.8 b 3.2 a 4.63 b 2456.8 b 539 a 1712 a 39.8 a 3.6 a 5.704 a 6195.6 a 1224.6 a 1803 a 34.0 a 3.4 a 5.616 a 1313.4 b 316.6 a 1715 a 31.0 b 3.4 a 7.088 a 12576.6 a 1695.4 a 1849 a 35.2 a 3.2 a 6.41 a 9069.2 a 1434.8 a 1624 a Plant count† 35.0 a Plant vigor 3.4 a Root fresh weight 4.982 b J2-Root knot 4635.2 a Root knot/ gm of root 822 a Yield lb/A 1546 a † Stand counts were the number of live plants in 3.1 m of row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ (P≤.05) 32 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion cotton VARietY tRiAl foR ResistAnce to VeRticillium wilt in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, C. H. Burmester, and B. Meyer Cotton cultivars were examined to determine their response to the root pathogen Verticillium dahilae, which causes wilt of cotton. The test was located on the Tate farms in northern Alabama. Plots were set up as replicated strips. Each plot consisted of one row, approximately 500 feet long (the length of the field) with a 40-inch row spacing. Irrigation was added with the center pivot and with four to six irrigation applications of 0.8 inch of water or less at each watering event, depending on the crops needs. All plots were maintained throughout the season using standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Wilted plants were counted on September 13, 2011. The total number of plants in 10 feet of row was counted and the number displaying wilt symptoms and vascular discoloration was recorded. Wilt severity was rated over the entire plot on a 1 to 5 scale with 1 representing no diseased plants, 3 representing wilted plants with chlorotic and necrotic leaf symptoms, and 5 representing plants with wilted necrotic leaves and dead plants present in each plot. Re-isolation of the Verticillium wilt fungus was conducted to confirm the presence of the disease pathogen. Data were statistically analyzed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models procedures as implemented in SAS. Means were separated using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05). The hot dry season was not conducive for Verticillium wilt in 2011, and disease symptoms were not as severe as seen in previous years. Environmental temperature and moisture was collected at the nearest research station. Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 76.2, 81.2, 90.1, 93.1, 94.2 and 88.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 50.6, 61.2, 69.7, 71.0, 72.1, and 61.0 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 4.07, 2.46, 4.99, 2.24, 3.70, 1.22, and 0.05 inches with a total of 18.74 inches over the entire season. The most susceptible varieties with the greatest number of wilted plants were CP3787B2RF, DP1137B2RF, DP1034B2RF, and DPX10R0135. These varieties produced an average percent of wilted plants of 70 percent or greater. These varieties along with PHY375WRF, DPX10R0110, and DPX10R052 formed the most severe Verticillium wilt severity ratings for the season. ST4288B2F, which is our most resistant variety, produced similar Verticillium wilt ratings as BX1261, DP1044B2RF, DPX10R020, BX1262, DPX10R0159, FM1740B2F, DPX10R011, and PHY367WRF. Verticillium wilt severity was low in all these varieties as well. Thus these eight varieties appear to support less Verticillium wilt. COTTOn VarieTy Trial FOr resisTanCe TO VerTiCillium wilT in nOrTh alabama, 2011 Variety CROPLAN 3787 B2RF DP 1137 B2RF DP 1034 B2RF DPLX 11R135 PHY 375 WRF DPLX 11R110 DPLX 10R052 BCSX 1150 PHY 499 WRF DPLX 10R051 DPLX 11R136 DP 1133 B2RF DPLX 11R115 ST 5288 B2F DP 0912 B2RF DPLX 11R112 DPLX 11R154 DPLX 11R124 DPLX 10R013 ST 4288 B2F BX 1261 DP 1044 B2RF DPLX 10R020 BX 1262 DPLX 11R159 FM 1740 B2F DPLX 10R011 PHY 367 WRF LSD (P≤0.05) Verticillium incidence % of plants in 10-ft row 81.59 a 77.79 ab 71.85 abc 70.59 abc 67.86 b-d 66.83 b-e 59.62 b-e 59.10 b-e 58.29 b-e 56.36 c-g 48.79 d-h 46.92 e-h 46.65 f-h 45.62 f-j 39.86 f-k 39.46 f-k 36.78 g-l 34.38 h-m 33.78 h-m 32.57 h-m 32.44 h-m 28.65 h-m 28.13 i-m 25.53 j-m 22.87 k-m 22.61 k-m 17.18 l-m 15.01 m 20.432 Verticillium severity 1-5 scale 2.875 abc 3.125 ab 2.875 abc 3.250 a 2.750 a-d 2.875 abc 2.875 abc 2.500 b-f 2.687 a-e 2.500 b-f 2.500 b-f 2.250 c-h 2.250 c-h 2.500 b-f 2.375 c-g 2.125 d-i 2.125 d-i 1.875 f-j 2.000 e-j 1.875 f-j 1.625 hij 2.000 e-j 1.625 hij 1.500 ij 1.750 g-j 1.500 ij 1.375 j 1.875 f-j 0.7046 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 33 eVAluAtion of A Pasteuria sp. on cotton foR RenifoRm nemAtode mAnAgement in noRth AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, D. W. Schrimsher, C. H. Burmester, and B. E. Norris The experimental biological nematicide Pasteuria sp. was evaluated for the management of the reniform nematode on cotton in an infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, Ala. The field was inoculated with the reniform nematode in May 2007. The soil was a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The FM1740 B2F seed were treated with a base fungicide insecticide mix of Baytan 30 10g + Vortex FL 2.5g + Allegiance FL 15.6 g ai/100 kg seed and Gaucho 600 FS applied at 0.375 mg ai per seed. Pasteuria sp. was applied by Pasteuria BioSciences. Plots were planted on May 17 and consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with a 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Nematode numbers were determined at monthly intervals. Plots were harvested on October 25. Data were statistically analyzed by ARM and means compared us- ing Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05). Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 76.2, 81.2, 90.1, 93.1, 94.2 and 88.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 50.6, 61.2, 69.7, 71.0, 72.1, and 61.0 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 4.07, 2.46, 4.99, 2.24, 3.70, 1.22, and 0.05 inches with a total of 18.74 inches over the entire season. Nematode disease pressure was moderate in 2011 due to the lack of rainfall in May, June, and August. Initial nematode numbers averaged 1198 vermiform life stages/150 cm3 of soil at planting. Plant stand were uniform and no phytotoxity was observed. Nematode numbers doubled in samples taken 30 days after planting (DAP); however, there were no differences between any of the treatments. In the 60 DAP samples, nematode numbers were very low probably due to the drought and no differences were observed between the Pasteuria and control plots. At harvest, nematode numbers were significantly lower in the Pasteuria 2x rate treatment compared to Pasteuria applied at the1x rate. Seed cotton yields were similar between treatments with a range in yields of 413 pounds per acre. eValuaTiOn OF a Pasteuria sp. On COTTOn FOr reniFOrm nemaTOde managemenT in nOrTh alabama, 2011 Stand/10 ft row‡ No 1 2 3 4 Treatment† Control Pasteuria Pasteuria Aeris LSD (P≤0.05) 106 cfu/seed 107 cfu/seed 0.75 mg ai/seed Rate 6/8/11 22 DAP 35.0 a 30.5 a 36.8 a 33.8 a 9.15 Rotylenchulus reniformis 6/22/11 30 DAP 2433 a 4248 a 2182 a 2317 a 3098.87 7/20/11 60 DAP 386 a 541 a 309 a 502 a 655.97 10/25/11 150 DAP 1506 ab 2955 a 1042 b 2858 a 5372.4 Seed cotton lb/A 150 DAP 2508 a 2171 a 2217 a 2584 a 861.4 † Baytan 30 10g + Vortex FL 2.5g + Allegiance FL 15.6 g ai/100 kg seed and Gaucho 600 FS 0.375 mg ai/seed base coat applied to all treatments. ‡ Stand counted from 3.05 m of row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.05). 34 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion eVAluAtion of An expeRimentAl nemAticide, bcs-AR83685, on cotton foR RenifoRm nemAtode mAnAgement in AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, D. W. Schrimsher, C. H. Burmester, and B. E. Norris The experimental nematicide BCS-AR83685 was evaluated for the management of the reniform nematode on cotton in an infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, Ala. The field was inoculated with the reniform nematode in May 2007. The soil was a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The FM1740 B2F seed were treated with a base fungicide mix of Baytan 30 10g + Vortex FL 2.5g + Allegiance FL 15.6 g ai/100 kg seed. Gaucho 600 FS, Aeris, Poncho + Votivo, or L1940A were applied to the seed for the specific treatments by Bayer Crop Science. Plots were planted on May 17 and consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. The B application of BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic was applied as an in-furrow spray at planting. The C application of BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic was applied to the soil, simulating a lay-by fertilizer application injecting the nematicides 2 inches away from the plant stem and 2 inches deep in the soil on June 22. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Nematode numbers were determined at monthly intervals. Plots were harvested on October 25. Data were statistically analyzed by ARM and means compared us- ing Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05). Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 76.2, 81.2, 90.1, 93.1, 94.2 and 88.4 °F with average minimum temperatures of 50.6, 61.2, 69.7, 71.0, 72.1, and 61.0 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 4.07, 2.46, 4.99, 2.24, 3.70, 1.22, and 0.05 inches with a total of 18.74 inches over the entire season. Nematode disease pressure was moderate in 2011 due to the lack of rainfall in May, June, and August. Initial nematode numbers averaged 1301 vermiform life stages/150 cm3 of soil at planting. Plant stand averaged 3.3 plants per 1 foot of row with no differences between any nematicides. Nematode numbers were very low at 30 days after planting (DAP) due to the lack of rainfall. At 60 DAP populations were significantly lower in treatments 2 and 4 (the Gaucho 600 FS + BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic combinations) as compared to treatment 7 (Aeris + Poncho + Votivo). At harvest, treatments 2 and 3 (the Gaucho 600 FS + BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic combinations) continued to support the lowest populations; however, they were not different from the control. Seed cotton yields were significantly increased in treatments 2, 3, and 4 (the Gaucho 600 FS + BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic combinations) as compared to the control. The Gaucho 600 FS + BCS-AR83685 + Admire Pro Systemic combinations increased the cotton yield by an average of 878 pounds per acre over the control. 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 35 eValuaTiOn OF an experimenTal nemaTiCide, bCs-ar83685, On COTTOn FOr reniFOrm nemaTOde managemenT in alabama, 2011 Stand§ No Treatment† 1 2 Gaucho 600 FS Gaucho 600 FS BCS-AR83685 Admire Pro Systemic 3 Gaucho 600 FS BCS-AR83685 Admire Pro Systemic 4 Gaucho 600 FS BCS-AR83685 Admire Pro Systemic BCS-AR83685 5 6 7 8 Gaucho 600 FS L1940-A Aeris L1940-A Aeris Poncho Votivo Gaucho 600 FS L1940-A Poncho Votivo LSD (P≤0.05) Rate and application 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.375 mg ai/seed 250 g ai/ha 210 g ai/ha 0.375 mg ai/seed 125 g ai/ha 210 g ai/ha 0.375 mg ai/seed 125 g ai/ha 210 g ai/ha 125 g ai/ha 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.75 mg ai/seed 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.75 mg ai/seed 0.424 mg ai/seed 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.375 mg ai/seed 0.424 mg ai/seed Timing of treatment A‡ A B B A B B A B B C A A A A A A A A A 9.15 231.53 841.61 5372.4 740.8 33.0 a 289.8 a 965.8 ab 9811.0 a 2979 ab 30.0 a 521.5 a 1274.5 a 4268.3 ab 2709 ab 33.8 a 174.3 a 1081.5 ab 6508.3 ab 2678 b 35.0 a 367.0 a 1081.8 ab 7223.0 ab 2398 b 33.3 a 289.8 a 328.5 b 4442.0 ab 3356 a 36.8 a 193.3 a 463.5 ab 2742.5 b 3451 a 6/8 11 22 DAP 35.0 a 30.5 a Rotylenchulus reniformis/150 cm3 Seed cotton 6/22/11 30 DAP 174.0 a 212.8 a 7/20/11 60 DAP 540.8 ab 340.8 b 10/25/11 150 DAP 5890.5 ab 3302.5 b lb/A 150 DAP 2554 b 3489 a † Baytan 30 10g + Vortex FL 2.5g + Allegiance FL 15.6 g ai/100 kg seed applied to all treatments for seedling disease control ‡ Timing of treatment: A applied as seed treatment; B applied as foliar spray at planting; and C applied at pin head square as a lay-by fertilizer application. § Stand counted from 10 ft of row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.05). 36 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion eVAluAtion of counteR, temik, And AVictA on cotton foR Root knot nemAtode mAnAgement in AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, T. Reed, and S. Nightengale Counter 20G, Temik 15G, and Avicta were evaluated for the management of the root knot nematode on cotton in an naturally infested field on the E. V. Smith Research Center near Shorter, Ala. The soil is a Kalmia loamy sand (80 percent sand, 10 percent silt, 10 percent clay). The PHY 565 WRF seed were treated with Avicta complete pack or with the fungicide and insecticide only by Syngenta Crop Science. Counter 20 G (4, 6, and 8 pounds per acre) and Temik 15G (3.5 and 7 pounds per acre) were applied at planting on April 28 in the seed furrow with chemical granular applicators attached to the planter. Plots consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with 36-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Nematode numbers were determined by digging three root systems per plot at 30 days after planting (DAP). Plots were harvested on September 26. Data were statistically analyzed by ARM and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05). Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 80.7, 84.9, 95.8, 92.9, 95.6, and 85.2 °F with average minimum temperatures of 52.5, 57.4, 69.3, 72.4, 70.2, and 62.7 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 1.91, 2.22, 2.24, 8.02, 0.64, and 4.9 inches with a total of 19.93 inches over the entire season. Nematode disease pressure was ideal for early planted cotton in 2011. Initial nematode numbers averaged 77 J2/150 cm2 of soil at planting. Plant stand was similar between all treatments with 2.6 to 3.6 plants per foot of row at 30 DAP. Thrips damage was evident and all nematicide treatments reduced foliar damage as compared to the control. Nematode eggs were also reduced by treatments 4 (Counter 20 G 8 pounds per acre), 7 (Avicta Complete), and 8 (Avicta Complete + Counter 20 G 4 pounds per acre) at 30 DAP. The numbers of eggs per gram of root followed this same pattern. Seed cotton yields were significantly increased by treatments 4 (Counter 20 G 8 pounds per acre), 5 (Temik 15 G 3.5 pounds per acre), 6 (Temik 15 G 7 pounds per acre), and 8 (Avicta Complete + Counter 20 G 4 pounds per acre) as compared to the control. The Counter 20 G treatments averaged an increase in yield of 409 pounds per acre over the control. The Temik 15 G rates increased yield an average of 584.6 pounds per acre. The Avicta seed treatment and Avicta + Counter 20 G (4-pounds-per-acre rate) produced 278.2 and 475.7 pounds per acre of cotton more than the untreated control, respectively. eValuaTiOn OF COunTer, Temik, and aViCTa On COTTOn FOr rOOT knOT nemaTOde managemenT in alabama, 2011 Stand† No 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Nematicide Control Counter 20G 4 lb/A Counter 20G 6 lb/A Counter 20G 8 lb/A Temik 15G 3.5 lb/A Temik 15G 7.0 lb/A Avicta Avicta + Counter 20G 4 lb/A LSD (P≤0.10) 10 ft/row 32.2 a 32.0 a 26.6 a 31.2 a 33.0 a 36.6 a 30.2 a 29.0 a 8.45 Thrips damage‡ 30 DAP 2.5 a 1.2 b 1.0 b 0.8 b 0.6 b 0.6 b 1.7 b 1.0 b 0.74 Meloidogyne incognita 30 DAP Eggs 8636.4 ab 14291.4 a 9502.0 ab 3677.4 b 6411.8 ab 6381.2 ab 3986.4 b 2703.8 b 9144.72 Eggs/gm root 1303.6 ab 2079.2 a 2166.2 ab 557.0 b 1049.8 ab 1345.4 ab 541.0 b 432.8 b 1342.65 Seed cotton lb/A 2001 b 2416 ab 2245 ab 2573 a 2675 a 2497 a 2280 ab 2477 a 411.1 † Stand was the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. ‡ Thrip damage rating were from 0 to 4 with 0 being no foliar damage and 4 being sever foliar damage. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.10). 2011 AU cropS: cotton rESEArch rEport 37 eVAluAtion of counteR, temik, And AVictA on cotton foR RenifoRm nemAtode mAnAgement in AlAbAmA, 2011 K. S. Lawrence, S. R. Moore, C. H. Burmester, T. Reed, and B. E. Norris Counter 20G, Temik 15G, and Avicta were evaluated for the management of the reniform nematode on cotton in an infested field on the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, Ala. The field was inoculated with the reniform nematode in May 2007. The soil was a Decatur silt loam (24 percent sand, 49 percent silt, 28 percent clay). The PHY 565 WRF seed were treated with Avicta complete pack or with the fungicide and insecticide only by Syngenta Crop Science. Counter 20 G (4, 6, and 8 pounds per acre) and Temik 15G (3.5 and 7 pounds per acre) were applied at planting on May 17 in the seed furrow with chemical granular applicators attached to the planter. Plots consisted of two rows, 25 feet long with a 40-inch row spacing, and were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications. Blocks were separated by a 20-foot wide alley. All plots were maintained throughout the season with standard herbicide, insecticide, and fertility production practices as recommended by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Plots were irrigated with a sprinkler system as needed. Nematode numbers were determined at monthly intervals. Plots were harvested on October 21. Data were statistically analyzed by ARM and means compared using Fisher’s protected least significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05). Monthly average maximum temperatures from planting in April through harvest in September were 82.9, 88.0, 97.5, 93.7, 96.7, 87.0 and 79.5 °F with average minimum temperatures of 56.7, 59.5, 70.7, 73.0, 71.8, 64.6, and 48.5 °F, respectively. Rainfall accumulation for each month was 3.57, 2.09, 4.56, 6.13, 1.76, 4.18, and 0.19 inches with a total of 22.48 inches over the entire season. Nematode disease pressure was moderate in 2011 due to the lack of rainfall in May, June, and August. Initial nematode numbers averaged 1,241 vermiform life stages/150 cm2 of soil at planting. Plant stand was significantly greater in the Temik 15 G (7 pounds per acre) and the Avicta + Counter 20 G (4 pounds per acre) nematicide treatments at 30 days after planting (DAP). Nematode numbers were very low at 30 DAP due to the lack of rainfall. The Avicta seed treatment did have more reniform in those plots than the control; however, the population levels across the field were low. At 60 DAP populations were still only reduced 80 percent from planting. By harvest nematode numbers did increase to an average of 5,694 vermiform life stages/150 cm2 of soil with all populations levels being similar to the untreated control. Seed cotton yields were significantly increased by Counter 20 G at 4 pounds per acre as compared to the control. The yield in Counter 20 G at 4 pounds per acre was similar to Temik 15 G at 7 pounds per acre. the Avicta seed treatment, and Avicta + Counter 20 G (4 pounds per acre). Interestingly, Counter 20 G applied at 6 and 8 pounds per acre produced yields significantly less than the 4-pounds-per-acre rate. Yields varied by 652 pounds per acre at harvest with an average of 394 pounds per acre average increase of seed cotton produced over all the fungicide treatments as compared to the untreated control. eValuaTiOn OF COunTer, Temik, and aViCTa On COTTOn FOr reniFOrm nemaTOde managemenT in alabama, 2010 Stand† No Nematicide 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Control Counter 20G 4 lb/A Counter 20G 6 lb/A Counter 20G 8 lb/A Temik 15G 3.5 lb/A Temik 15G 7.0 lb/A Avicta Avicta + Counter 20G 4lb/A LSD (P≤0.10) 10 ft row 23.8 bc 25.5 abc 23.0 c 27.8 ab 27.8 ab 28.8 a 27.8 ab 28.3 a 4.15 Reniform per 150 cm3 30 DAP 270.5 b 212.5 b 77.0 b 270.3 b 115.8 b 193.0 b 811.3 a 173.8 b 307.91 60 DAP 251.3 a 251.3 a 193.0 a 116.0 b 116.0 b 174.0 ab 154.8 ab 232.0 ab 130.66 150 DAP 4635.3 b 5021.5 ab 6006.5 ab 8092.0 a 4963.8 ab 6122.0 ab 3920.3 b 6798.0 ab 4344.19 Seed cotton lb/A 2076 bc 2435 a 1854 bc 2067 bc 1495 c 2230 ab 2121 ab 2345 ab 577.5 † Stand was the number of seedlings in a 10-foot row. Means followed by same letter do not significantly differ according to Fishers LSD test (P ≤ 0.10). 38 AlAbAmA AgriculturAl ExpErimEnt StAtion contRibutoRs index Author K. S. Balkcom W. C. Birdsong A. Brooke Pages 7, 8 6, 9, 19 11, 12 Author S. R. Moore S. Nightengale B. E. Norris Pages 22-23, 24-25, 26-27, 28-29, 30-31, 33, 34-35, 36, 37 36 22-23, 24-25, 26-27, 28-29, 33, 34-35, 37 C. H. Burmester 9, 10, 11, 24-25, 28-29, 32, 33, 34-35, 37 L. M. Curtis D. P. Delaney D. Derrick B. A. Dillard C. Dillard M. P. Dougherty B. Durham J. P. Fulton W. Griffith K. Glass M. H. Hall L. Kuykendall K. S. Lawrence P. Mask T. McDonald B. Meyer C. C. Mitchell C. D. Monks D. Moore 11 7, 8, 10 9 6, 9, 19 10 11 11 11, 12 9 20-21 12 9 20-21, 22-23, 24-25, 26-27, 28-29, 30-31, 32, 33, 34-35, 36, 37 10 12 32 7, 8, 13 9, 10, 19 13, 16 M. G. Patterson 19 T. Reed E. Schavey 15, 16, 36, 37 9 D. W. Schrimsher 33, 34-35 T. Z. Scott A. Sharda J. Shaw R. H. Smith E. van Santen R. Taylor H. A. Torbert D. Watts D. B. Weaver R. P. Yates 20-21, 30-31 12 11 15, 16, 17, 18 12, 20-21 12 14 13, 14 5 9