Reducing the Potential for Nematode Problems in Peanut through Rotation and Cultivar Choice

Nematodes can be very damaging on peanut. Until recently, standard nematode control measures, including fumigation with metam sodium, and application of aldicarb {Temik) have been very effective in managing nematode problems in North Carolina. However, aldicarb is no longer available and metam sodium use has declined due to regulatory concerns and associated costs of compliance. Alternatives to these treatments are very expensive or ineffective, or both. In addition, there has been dramatic shift in peanut cultivars in the past 3-5 years due to widespread acceptance of new cultivars. Additional information about the nematode resistance or susceptibility of these new cultivars is needed. 
This research examined the efficacy of rotation, tillage, and cultivar against nematode populations and yield loss in peanut. Results showed that long rotations were highly effective in reducing populations of plant parasitic nematodes on peanuts to levels that do not impact yield. Results also showed that currently popular cultivars do not support large nematode populations when grown under favorable rotations. These results suggest that growers can grow peanut profitably without incurring costs of nematode control. They also reinforce the importance of maintaining good rotations for peanut productivity. Peanut farmers do not grow peanut without other crops, and these data are useful in helping farmers predict possible impacts on corn, cotton and soybeans.