Spring SCN Soil Sampling - 2/21/2012

Although the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is one of the most persistent and destructive pests of soybean in Iowa and the midwest, the potential to underestimate the nematode's yield-reducing effects is great because damage from SCN is not readily apparent in the field during growing seasons with adequate to excess moisture. The need to take the threat of SCN seriously was recently reviewed in an ICM News article. Fortunately, fields can be checked for the presence of SCN in the spring through soil sampling.