The effect of the reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis, on growth, yield, and/or quality of sunflower was compared in fumigated and unfumigated plots in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. In 1975, 1976, and 1981 plots were established in a sandy loam field naturally infested with the reniform nematode. Treatments included 1,3-dichloropropene applied at 47, 56, or 75 L/ha by chisel injection 25 cm deep and an untreated chiseled control. The soil fumigant significantly reduced the nematode populations in all years when compared to untreated plots. Yields of fumigated plots were significantly increased in 1975, 1976, and 1981. In 1975 seeds from fumigated and unfumigated plots were analyzed for palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acid. Oleic acid was significantly higher in seed from fumigated plots.
