Cercospora Leaf Blight of Soybean
Published: 03/19/2019
Cercospora leaf blight is caused by the fungus Cercospora kikuchii. This disease is frequently observed in soybean fields. Foliar symptoms usually are seen at the beginning of seed set and occur in the uppermost canopy on leaves exposed to the sun. Leaves are typically only discolored on the upper surface with symptoms ranging from light purple, pinpoint spots to larger, irregularly shaped patches. Affected leaves may become leathery and dark purple with bronze highlights. Symptoms may be confused with sunburn, which typically occurs on the leaf underside.
Warm and wet weather favors infection and development of disease.
There are commercially available varieties resistant to Cercospora leaf blight. Foliar fungicides are registered for Cercospora leaf blight but are often not needed for this disease.
Although caused by the same organism, there is no consistent relationship between occurrence of Cercospora leaf blight and purple seed stain.
Leaf discoloration symptomatic of Cercospora leaf blight.
Image: C. Grau
Cercospora leaf blight symptoms.
Image: D. Mueller
Cercospora leaf blight disease cycle.
Leaf bronzing characteristic of Cercospora leaf blight.
Leaves are typically only discolored on the upper surface.
Leaves may become leathery and dark purple with bronze highlights.
Early Cercospora leaf blight symptoms.
Leaf bronzing characteristic of Cercospora leaf blight.
Leaf bronzing characteristic of Cercospora leaf blight.
Gallery Images: D. Mueller, M. Licht, A. Sisson, C. Bradley, and C. Grau
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