Illinois soybeans face a new threat known as red crown rot, a fungus from the soil. This disease leads to soybean leaves turning yellow and reddish stem discoloration. Since it was first noticed in 2018, the disease has spread to about 22 counties in the western and southwest parts of Illinois.
Red crown rot can seriously affect soybeans, causing significant loss in yield. Reports from Kentucky, where the disease is more common, show yield losses of even 50%.
The good news is that farmers can take steps to protect their soybeans from red crown rot. Seed treatments can provide some defense, and there's a fungicide called Saltro that's approved for managing red crown rot in Illinois.
Farmers should also be watchful for corn rootworms, which tend to appear during this season in Illinois. While rotating crops helps reduce their impact, fields with continuous corn might still face problems from these pests.
If you notice your soybeans turning yellow, identifying the cause is crucial. Suspecting red crown rot requires sending plant samples to a lab for testing. Keeping an eye out for corn rootworms is advised, and if needed, appropriate treatments should be applied.
For farmers, the following tips are valuable:
• Plant soybeans early in the season to give them time to mature before red crown rot becomes a problem.
• Choose soybean varieties that are resistant to red crown rot.
• Rotate your crops to help break the cycle of the disease.
• Apply a fungicide to your soybeans as a preventive measure.
• Inspect your fields regularly for signs of red crown rot and corn rootworms.
By following these simple guidelines, farmers can shield their soybeans from the harm caused by red crown rot and corn rootworms.
Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Soybeans