Sweetpotato Storage Root Count Response to 1,3-Dichloropropene Plus Chloropicrin Treatments

Fumigation is typically used as a management tool for reducing the negative effects of nematodes on sweetpotato storage root quality and yield. Past studies have not specifically investigated fumigation treatment effects on sweetpotato storage root count. Studies involving 1,3-Dichloropropene (1,3-D) as well as the use of a commercial formulation of 40% 1,3-D and 60% Chloropicrin fumigation treatments revealed a consistent increase in U.S.#1 storage root count in ‘Beauregard’ sweetpotato. This yield increase was detected despite very low nematode counts. Possible explanations for this yield response will be presented within the context of critical storage root initiation stages.