A nematode survey of soils planted to cotton in 1989 and 1990 was conducted to determine the extent of nematode infestations in cotton in South Carolina. It was estimated that at least 50% of sampled fields contained one or more species of nematode capable of damaging cotton (Gossypium spp.). Columbia lance (Hoplolaimus columbus) was the most frequently detected damaging species, followed by root-knot (Meloidogyne spp.), reniform (Rotylenchulus reniformis) and sting (Belonolaimus longicaudatus) (35, 10, 3, and 1 % of samples above threshold, respectively). We conclude, based on these surveys and on-farm testing, that nematodes are major pests of cotton in South Carolina.