2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): 1. Develop improved nematode management strategies based on cultural, biocontrol, and chemical pesticide approaches for suppression of ring and/or root-knot nematodes and related peach and pecan disease complexes, such as Peach Tree Decline and Pecan Replant Disease. 2. Elucidate the interactive effects among key nematode pests and pathogenic fungi, and rootstock genotype to improve understanding of host susceptibility to peach tree decline problems, such as Peach Tree Decline Disease. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): Evaluate cover crop systems for nematode suppression and mode of action identified; investigate efficacy of a new postplant nematicide and lower rates of Telone with selected rootstocks; evaluate Pasteuria penetrans as a biocontrol agent for pecan root-knot nematode; develop new knowledge regarding interactive effects among nematode pests and pathogenic fungi as correlated with peach replant disease; and evaluate advanced Prunus germplasm for resistance to continuous root-knot and ring nematode pressure under field conditions. Resources will support research already taking place on this research project. This includes development of strategies or approaches to minimize the economic impact of nematodes and other pathogens on peach and pecan. Work involves ground covers, new postplant nematicide, alternatives to chemical nematicides, lower rates of Telone II nematicide, and biological agent to reduce nematode populations in soils. 3.Progress Report: In FY 2012, this new Project Plan was accepted for implementation on April 04, 2012. Progress accomplished to date includes:. 1)Three tall fescue groundcover, peach tree, and natural weed treatments have been established and baseline nematode data recorded;. 2)grass and peach root exudates to be used in nematode attraction study have been extracted and stored in freezer for upcoming trials;. 3)Met with collaborators in February 2012 in Florida to discuss Pasteuria penetrans research project. Microplots to be used in this biological control study with the Pecan root-knot nematode are being established;. 4)Baseline nematode populations in both the Movento and Telone II field nematicide trials have been obtained. In the Telone II, the fumigation treatments have been established (full rate vs. half rate vs. unfumigated);. 5)peach rootstocks and nematode treatments have been established in field microplots to determine superior resistance to continuous ring and root-knot nematode pressure over time; and. 6)timelines were discussed with Clemson University collaborator to synchronize nematode, Armillaria (ARR), and peach rootstock treatments in field microplots.