Chemical control of the cereal cyst nematode (Heterodera avenae) - a comparison of methods and rates of application of two systemic nematicides

Abstract

Temik, (2, methyl 2(methylthio) propionaldehyde O-(methylcarbamoyl)oxime) and Lannate, (S methyl N ((methylcarbamoyl)oxy)thioacetimidate) were compared in broadcast and drill row applications at different rates for control of Heterodera avenae on wheat at two sites in Victoria during 1969-1972. All broadcast applications and all drill row treatments except Lannate 0.3 kg ha-1 in 1971, significantly reduced white cyst production. Lannate dusted wheat seed was ineffective. Temik at 9 kg ha-1 broadcast, and 2.2 kg ha-1 in the drill row gave best control of H. avenae and completely prevented production of cysts. Temik, at comparable rates, was a better nematicide than Lannate, and on a rate for rate basis drill row treatments were more effective than broadcast treatments. The degree of nematode control was directly related to the amount of nematicide applied. Significant increases in grain yield were obtained in each experiment. All chemical treatments (except Lannate dusted seed) applied in 1969 significantly reduced white cyst production in 1971 but only four of these provided significant increases in grain yield, viz. Temik (at 9, 4.5 and 2.2 kg ha-1 broadcast, and 2.2 kg ha-1 in the drill row)