Distribution of methyl bromide in soils treated for nematode control in replant vineyards

Abstract

AbstractMethyl bromide was applied with and without polyethylene covers at rates of 337, 449, 673 and 898 kg/ha to replant vineyard soils to control plant parasitic nematodes. Distribution of the gas in the soil atmosphere at different depths was measured by gas chromatography. Higher doses, low soil moisture and deeper placement of methyl bromide resulted in more rapid soil penetration and higher concentrations of the gas at the deeper soil levels. Placement of methyl bromide in the soil at 0.76‐0.81 m without polyethylene cover resulted in gas distribution at concentrations sufficient for nematode kill as deep as 2.44 m.