By Blake Jackson
Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is a major threat to soybean crops in Missouri and many other regions. This hidden enemy lurks in the soil and can cause significant yield losses, even without any visible signs above ground.
Spring is the ideal time to test your soybean fields for SCN. Comparing the number of SCN eggs in the soil before planting and again at harvest reveals the effectiveness of your SCN management strategies and potential yield losses.
The University of Missouri offers free SCN egg count testing for farmers this spring and again at harvest. This valuable service allows you to assess SCN populations in your fields and make informed decisions.
Another option for monitoring SCN during the growing season is to inspect soybean roots for female nematodes roughly 5-6 weeks after planting. These females are small, oval-shaped, and easily detach from the roots.
Soybean varieties with built-in resistance have been the primary defense against SCN. However, the pest is constantly evolving, and the most common resistance source (PI88788) is becoming less effective.
Recent research suggests promising alternatives. Studies comparing PI88788 to a different resistance type called Peking showed a decrease in SCN egg counts when Peking varieties were planted. This suggests that rotating Peking varieties with PI88788 could be a beneficial strategy for managing SCN in both heavily and lightly infested fields.
While new genetic tools for SCN control are under development, it will likely take several years before they reach the commercial market. These future tools, along with responsible use of current methods, are crucial for effectively managing this persistent soilborne pest.
By testing your fields, implementing appropriate management strategies, and staying informed about new developments, you can protect your soybean crops from SCN and ensure a healthy, high-yielding harvest. For more information on SCN contact the University of Missouri SCN Diagnostics Clinic.
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans