Exploring Cover Crops as a SCN Management Tool
Soybean cyst nematode poses a significant threat to soybean yields, and despite previous management successes, it has adapted to resistance. Researchers, supported by the Illinois Soybean Association, are investigating the potential of cover crops as a tool to mitigate SCN damage.
How Cover Crops Impact Soybean Growth and Development
Researchers around the state are continuing to study and learn about the impact of cover crops on soybean growth and development and grain yield. Read observations from three experts and their assessments from this season and questions they are asking themselves in preparation for the 2024 growing season.
A Harvest Roller Coaster: Illinois Soy Envoys Share Crop Updates
This year's harvest has brought a wide range of yields so far, from disappointing to outstanding, in both soybeans and corn. The Illinois Soy Envoys offer a wide-ranging harvest report, covering yield assessments from various regions across the state.
Join the Battle Against SCN: Free Soil Sampling Offered to IL Soybean Farmers
The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is calling soybean farmers across the state to join the battle against Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) by providing free soil sampling to help track and research the largest yield robber in soybeans. ISA announced the check-off funded testing during October, SCN Awareness Month.
Impact of Cover Crops on SCN
As cover crops gain popularity in crop rotations, the question arises: Do they aid or potentially host soybean cyst nematode (SCN)? Dr. Mandy Bish from the University of Missouri Extension examines strip-trial data, particularly regarding cereal rye, which shows no significant enhancement of SCN populations. However, the impact of legume cover crops on SCN remains an area of concern.
Early Planted Soybeans & SCN
IL farmers continue to plant soybeans earlier each year. Dr. Mandy Bish, University of Missouri Extension Specialist, examines the impact of this trend on soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and considers various factors, including weather and environmental conditions, that could potentially increase soybean vulnerability to SCN.
Corn Rotation and Other SCN Management Strategies
Dr. Mandy Bish discusses the role of corn in combating soybean cyst nematode and highlights other various management strategies for SCN. She urges awareness of Sudden Death Syndrome as a potential visual indicator of SCN within the field as well as reviews data from seed treatment trials.
SCN Resistance in Soybean Varieties
Soybean cyst nematode has overcome the PI 88788 resistance, which farmers have relied on for over 30 years. Researchers have identified commercially available soybean varieties with Peking resistance that excel in high SCN pressure areas.
Uncovering the Challenges of SCN Distribution
Distribution is a major challenge in researching and managing soybean cyst nematode. This pest tends to stay close to its original location in the soil, leading to significant variations in egg counts even within a small 6-inch radius.
Prioritizing Funding for SCN Research
How should funding be allocated for soybean cyst nematode (SCN) research? Dr. Mandy Bish, University of Missouri Extension Specialist, and Stephanie Porter, Illinois Soybean Association Outreach Agronomist & CCA, explain how it takes a team to research this pest and how to pursue collaborative efforts with commodity associations, corporations, and universities.
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