Responses of Reniform Nematode and Browntop Millet to Tillage, Cover Crop, and Herbicides in Cotton

Abstract

Cropping practices that suppress reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) and browntop millet (Urochlora ramosum) may help minimize losses in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). The impacts of tillage, a rye cover crop, and application of preemergence and postemergence herbicides on cotton yields, reniform nematode populations, and browntop millet control were investigated from 2005 to 2007 at Stoneville, MS. Cotton yields were highest with conventional tillage and were reduced by rye cover crop. Reniform nematode population densities were not affected by tillage, cover crop, or herbicide treatments. Browntop millet control was highest with conventional tillage combined with preemergence herbicides, and these practices could benefit producers who need to manage this weed. Browntop millet was not controlled as well where a rye cover crop was grown. Management practices are still needed to control reniform nematodes in cotton, but the management practices that suppressed browntop millet did not affect reniform nematode populations and could likely be used without increasing the risk of damage from the nematodes.