Soybeans were scouted at the R5 (beginning seed) growth stage and non-uniform stunted growth and stand, dieback, root galling, and yellow leaf discoloration was observed in patches across the field. This issue was confirmed to be injury from root-knot nematodes. Symptoms associated with root-knot nematodes in soybeans include non-uniform stunting, wilting, chlorotic patches, and galling found on the roots. In this environment damaging numbers of root-knot nematodes were recovered from the sample submitted.
Confirm that the issue is root knot nematode and the amount of nematode pressure present. Then, work to prevent the spread. In the future, selecting a resistant variety is the most cost effective preventative measure.
