Tobacco thrips (Frankliniella fusca) and nematodes are widespread pests of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) across the southeastern U.S. Recently, cotton varieties genetically modified with resistance to thrips (i.e., ThryvOn) have been released. Field experiments were conducted in 2022 and 2023 in Alabama to determine the effects of at-plant insecticides and ThryvOn cotton varieties on thrips management in nematode-infested fields. A total of four tests were done in a Meloidogyne incognita-(root-knot nematode)-infested field at the Plant Breeding Unit in Tallassee, AL, and in a Rotylenchulus reniformis-(reniform nematode)-infested field at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center near Belle Mina, AL. Plots were sampled for thrips injury and populations at the 2nd, 4th, and 6th true-leaf stages. Additionally, plots were sampled for nematodes between 30 and 45 days after planting. Treatments included ThryvOn and non-ThryvOn cotton treated with AgLogic, Gaucho insecticide seed treatment, or Admire Pro + Velum fungicide/nematicide. Across years and locations, ThryvOn cotton provided consistent control of thrips. Similarly, at-plant insecticides provided consistent thrips control compared with the non-treated, non-ThryvOn untreated control. Additionally, both ThryvOn and non-ThryvOn cotton benefited from the addition of the Admire Pro + Velum and AgLogic with reduced nematode populations.
