By Blake Jackson
A new threat has emerged for Missouri soybean farmers. University of Missouri Extension state plant pathologist Mandy Bish has confirmed the presence of red crown rot in Marion County. This marks the first detection of this yield-robbing disease in the state.
Red crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause significant yield losses, ranging from 15% to 70%. The fungus thrives in warm, wet conditions and infects soybean roots shortly after planting.
Symptoms often appear later in the growing season, mimicking those of other soybean diseases, making accurate diagnosis crucial.
To identify red crown rot, farmers should look for patches of unhealthy plants in low-lying areas of the field. Infected plants often exhibit yellowing leaves that eventually turn brown and die. The most distinctive symptom is a reddish discoloration at the base of the stem and root.
Currently, there are no soybean varieties resistant to red crown rot. To manage the disease, farmers should prioritize crop rotation with non-host crops like corn for at least two years.
Reducing the spread of the disease through equipment cleaning and avoiding planting in wet, low-lying areas is also recommended. Fungicide seed treatments labeled for red crown rot may offer some protection against early-season infections.
As red crown rot continues to spread, farmers are urged to be vigilant in monitoring their fields for symptoms and to consult with local extension specialists for guidance on disease management.
Contact the MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic at https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/plant-diagnostic-clinic to help with diagnosis of the disease.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-gilaxia
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans