Soybean farmers in Indiana are being cautioned about the spread of red crown rot, a soilborne disease that has recently been detected in several counties. As the disease spreads, farmers must recognize its symptoms and prepare effective management strategies.
How to Identify Red Crown Rot
Red crown rot can be tricky to identify because its symptoms closely resemble other common soybean diseases like sudden death syndrome or brown stem rot. Signs to look for include:
- Yellow speckling on leaves
- Interveinal necrosis and chlorosis, where the veins of the leaves stay green, but the tissue between them discolors to yellow or brown
- Red discoloration at the base of the stem near the soil line
A major difference between red crown rot and diseases like sudden death syndrome is that the leaves may remain on the plant rather than falling off. Additionally, fungal structures can sometimes form on the red tissue near the crown, although they aren't always visible.
Disease Spread and Management Strategies
Red crown rot spreads through the soil, making it tough to manage. Rotating crops with non-legumes, such as corn, can help initially limit the disease's spread. However, a more comprehensive management approach will be required for long-term soybean farming.
Early identification of the disease is crucial since there are no current in-season management solutions available. Knowing whether red crown rot is present in a field can help farmers make informed decisions for future seasons and develop stronger disease management plans.
Preparing for the Future
Since its first detection in Indiana in 2022, red crown rot has spread to several counties, including Adams, Bartholomew, Rush, Decatur, and Spencer. The disease has long been an issue in southern states, but its recent spread to the Midwest, including Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky, raises concern among farmers.
To effectively track and manage the spread of red crown rot, farmers are encouraged to submit samples of suspected infected plants to diagnostic labs. Early detection is critical to monitoring its impact and developing future management strategies to protect soybean crops.
As red crown rot continues to pose challenges, having the right farm equipment could make a difference. Contact a local John Deere dealer today.