Recently, corn parasitic nematodes have been the focus of many articles and discussions. Even though these nematodes have always been a yield limiting factor, many contributing elements have recently brought their importance to light. Some factors like discontinuing the use of traditional insecticides/nematicides, the planting of corn following corn, changes in tillage practices, the currrent high price of corn, and introduction of new seed treatments have played significant roles in increasing the interest in corn parasitic nematodes. Needle nematodes and Lance nematodes are the most yield limiting plant parasitic nematodes of corn in Indiana. Symptoms of these nematodes include patches of stunted yellow corn and most often the roots are truncated with symptoms that resemble root inhibitor (dinitroaniline) herbicide injury. The best time to sample for these nematodes is about 6 weeks after planting. These samples should include soil (4-6 inches deep) plus corn roots.

            Soybean cyst nematode continues to be the perennial pest of soybean in Indiana. Resistant cultivars have been the best management tool for this pest. However, over-use of one particular source of resistance (PI88788) in almost all of the commercially available resistant cultivars for more than thirty years has enabled this nematode to overcome this source of resistance in many part of the country, including Indiana. Cultivars with new sources of resistance plus more innovative management practices are needed to limit damage from this prominent pest of soybean.  Soil samples for SCN (4-6 inches deep) can be taken any time of the year and under any crop.