Soybean farmers can significantly reduce yield losses by understanding the presence of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) in their fields, experts say. Dylan Mangel, a plant pathologist with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, emphasized the importance of soil testing as a key tool for managing this pervasive pest.
“Some other nematodes move up and down the soil profile throughout the year, making them harder to detect, but with soybean cyst nematode, taking soil from the top six to eight inches in the previous soybean root zone is sufficient to determine if it’s present,” Mangel explained.
Knowing SCN population levels allows farmers to select the most effective management strategies for their fields, including crop rotation, resistant soybean varieties, and targeted treatments. Mangel encourages growers to collect soil samples with a probe or shovel and submit them for analysis. “We can tell you if nematodes are present and impacting your soybeans,” he said.
SCN remains a costly challenge for U.S. soybean producers. According to the SCN Coalition, the pest causes an estimated $1.5 billion in annual losses nationwide, highlighting the critical role of monitoring and proactive management in maintaining soybean productivity.
