PRODUCTION

Temik Shortage Poses Problems For Producers

The possible shortage of Temik, used as a nematicide and insecticide in cotton, throws a monkey wrench into farmers’ abilities to plan for planting season.

According to Bayer CropScience, in response to a lawsuit situation, a temporary restraining order affecting the production of a key intermediate used in the production of Sevin brand carbaryl and Temik brand aldicarb insecticides was granted and then extended until late March.

Whether the judge ruled in favor of allowing production to move forward or ruled against, leaving only the product already produced as the supply for this season, producers were advised to consider alternatives, just in case.

The possible loss of Temik leaves very big shoes to fill. Extension specialists have fielded many calls on this subject. Following are recommendations regarding planting in 2011.

Options For Nematode Management

Bob Kemerait, University of Georgia Extension plant pathologist, advises producers on nematode control. His first recommendations for this season involve variety selection.

“PHY 367 WRF and ST 5458B2RF varieties have partial resistance to southern root-knot nematodes but not to reniform or Columbia lance,” he says. “Planting these varieties in a root-knot field will complement other management strategies.”

Kemerait says Telone II fumigant plus a seed treatment insecticide for thrips control can provide outstanding control of nematodes.

“Seed treatment nematicides Avicta Complete Cotton and Aeris Seed-Applied System both offer some control of nematodes,” he says. “While not complete replacements for Temik 15G, they do offer control of nematodes where populations are less damaging.”

Another option for producers who do not use Telone II, but need more than just a seed treatment nematicide, is the additional application of Vydate CLV at 17 fluid ounces per acre to cotton. Applying Vydate between the fifth and seventh true leaf stage will complement the seed treatments.

Use An At-Plant Insecticide

While Temik has been the standard for early season thrips control in Georgia and other Southern states for many years, Roberts says there are alternative treatments for thrips control in cotton.

“The alternative treatments include the neonicotinoid seed treatments Gaucho and Cruiser,” he says. “These seed treatments provide control for about three weeks after planting. Seed treatments provide thrips control for about 21 days after planting. Where there is rapid seedling growth, this level of protection is often acceptable.”

Use Starter Fertilizer

Creating an environment conducive to rapid emergence and growth will be important in 2011. Glen Harris, University of Georgia soil scientist, says starter fertilizer will once again be an important component of planting.

“Starter fertilizers can help get the crop through the thrips injury window faster,” he says.

Producers have even more choices to make this season, with the possible shortage or unavailability of Temik. But, making difficult decisions is something they do almost every day.

Contact Amanda Huber at (352) 486-7006 or ahuber@onegrower.com.