Evaluation of Cotton Varieties and Velum for Reniform Nematode Management in North Alabama, 2025

Reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis, RN) is a major constraint to cotton production in the southeastern United States, reducing plant vigor and yield. This study evaluated four cotton varieties (DP 2038 B3XF, DP 2131 B3TXF, DP 2143NR B3XF, and DP 2522NR B3TXF) with and without the in-furrow nematicide Velum at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center in Belle Mina, AL, in 2025. Resistant cultivars DP 2143NR B3XF and DP 2522NR B3TXF supported lower egg densities and produced 20–30% greater seed cotton yields, resulting in an average gain of 265 lb. lint/acre valued at approximately $175/acre compared with susceptible varieties. Velum nematicide enhanced plant growth and increased yield by 13%, corresponding to an additional 144 lb. lint/acre valued at approximately $94/acre. These results demonstrate that combining resistant cultivar selection with nematicide use improves cotton productivity and economic returns in RN infested fields.