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On the lookout for red crown rot

The outreach agronomist with the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) says farmers should be on the lookout for red crown rot in soybeans.

Stephanie Porter says the disease has been found across the state.

“This is around the time that you might find it.”  She says, “If you look at the base of the plant, especially in in moist conditions like we’ve had, you’ll see these globular type red things. Those are the part of the fungus that drops off and causes the spread.”

She tells Brownfield there’s still not much known about red crown rot.

“If you would ask a western Illinois farmer how bad this disease is, it’s actually causing major yield loss to the point where some are switching to corn on corn,” she says.

Porter says ISA is teaming with growers and the USDA Agricultural Research Service for the second straight year to help determine its spread.

“They continue to ask for samples if you think you see it,” she says.  “Right now, you may not see Red Crown Rot show up from the road. You would have to probably go out and actually scout the field.”

A link to submit samples and further information can be found HERE.

AUDIO: Stephanie Porter – Illinois Soybean Association