Sudden Death Syndrome Still Exists
The desire for straightforward answers is common; however, this year, in particular, we've seen how various factors in the field can interconnect and contribute to diseases. ISA Outreach Agronomist & CCA, Stephanie Porter, encourages growers to follow this 10-step process to thoroughly assess situations in your soybean fields.
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.
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.
SCN Management Starts With Testing
Knowing soybean cyst nematode (SCN) egg counts in your fields is key to managing this pest. Dr. Mandy Bish, University of Missouri Extension Specialist, & Stephanie Porter, ISA Outreach Agronomist & CCA, explain the importance of consistent testing. Get FREE SCN sampling kits through the Illinois Soybean Association & University of Illinois Plant Clinic.
