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Home to 14 million people, Tokyo is the most populated city in the world. That may be hard to fathom if you have never been there or seen aerial images of the megacity, but when it comes to nematodes in the soil, a population of 14 million is a drop in the bucket.
A single acre of farmland can harbor anywhere from several hundred million to several billion nematodes. Sandy soils tend to support higher populations than heavier soils, while soils rich in organic matter attract larger and more diverse populations of the microscopic worms.
“While plant-parasitic nematodes, left uncontrolled, can be a nightmare for vineyard managers, free-living, or beneficial nematodes, play a positive role in supporting good soil health,” said Becky Westerdahl, professor of Cooperative Extension at the University of California, Davis. “From decomposing organic matter to recycling nutrients and even preying on plant-parasitic nematodes, beneficial nematodes are important microorganisms living in the soil.”
Preserving Soil Health, Preparing for 2026
The adage “what you don’t know can’t hurt you” does not apply to plant-parasitic nematodes. Soil sampling is critical during the establishment of a new vineyard, especially in blocks where nematode populations have been historically high. Although soil sampling may be an imperfect science, skipping a nematicide treatment when it is needed can be costly.
“With high-value crops like wine grapes, failure to control nematodes can be devastating to vine health,” said Jesse Richardson, integrated field scientist with Corteva Agriscience. “I always recommend pulling soil samples from multiple locations during the spring and fall root flush – especially when soil types vary from block to block.”
As research continues to provide science-based information about biologicals, more growers are evaluating their potential to manage soil pests and improve crop yield potential and quality. Because biologicals are derived from microbes, plants and other living organisms, using a nematode control product that also kills fungi and bacteria would be counterproductive.
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“Salibro CA nematicide with Reklemel active is unique when compared with other nematicides,” Richardson said. “It will control plant-parasitic nematodes without disrupting the healthy balance of beneficial soil organisms. As the first nonfumigant sulfonamide nematicide, Salibro CA also gives growers a new mode of action for improved resistance management.”
Formulated as a suspension concentrate, Salibro CA nematicide delivers effective control on a broad spectrum of plant-parasitic nematode species. Research trials demonstrate the minimal impact on beneficial soil organisms that promote carbon and nitrogen cycling and support natural suppression of diseases and pests.
“Healthy nonbearing grapevine roots facilitate enhanced water movement and improve tolerances to a range of biological and environmental stresses,” Richardson said. “Managing plant-parasitic nematodes requires an integrated approach that includes planting nematode-tolerant or -resistant rootstocks and managing irrigation and nutrients for maximum vine growth and development.”
Contact your local Corteva Agriscience representative or retailer for additional information. Salibro CA nematicide is now available.
™ ® Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. Salibro® CA is only registered for sale or use in California. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Reklemel® is a registered active ingredient. Always read and follow label directions. ©2025 Corteva. 032188 BR (09/25) CAAG5SBRO059