Effects of application procedures and irrigation on degradation and movement of aldicarb residues in soil

Aldicarb was applied to potato plants in two locations in Wisconsin to determine the effects of application procedures and irrigation on degradation and movement of aldicarb residues, plant uptake, insect control and crop yield. Two application procedures (3.36 kg. AI/ha applied in the furrows at planting and 2.24 kg AI/ha applied as a top-dress application consisting of a surface-applied band covered with soil at plant emergence) and two irrigation regimens (medium water use based on evapotranspiration and heavy water use based on evapotranspiration plus 60%) were tested. The emergence application was effective in reducing the downward movement of aldicarb residues without significantly affecting performance as measured by insecticidal efficacy, crop residues and yield. Excess irrigation increased downward movement of aldicarb residues in soil, diminished foliar residues and resulted in decreased insect control and crop yield. Differences in soil characteristics, primarily in water-holding capacity, were important in reducing downward movement of aldicarb in soil.