News
Look to the stem for SDS confirmation
A plant pathologist says the telltale signs of Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) lie within the plant’s stem.
Michigan State University’s Marty Chilvers says SDS can be confused with other diseases like brown stem rot which is why growers need to inspect a plant’s stem.
“We split those stems and if its brown stem rot, then we will see browning of the stem tissue, and very often we will also see blue masses of spores on the root system.”
He says if farmers are unsure, plant diagnostic labs can also help with identification and how to manage outbreaks. He recommends also testing for soybean cyst nematodes which can exacerbate SDS outbreaks.
Chilvers says his research now includes studying the benefits of extended rotation for SDS control.
“Having something else in that rotation, albeit red clover or alfalfa or something like that, we’ve seen that provide some benefit.”
Areas currently experiencing cool, wet weather are susceptible to a resurgence of SDS, but extension educators say little can be done this late in the season and farmers should include mitigation strategies as part of next year’s management plan.
Chilvers presented his work during MSU’s recent virtual Soybean Field Day.
