Cercospora leaf spot
scouted Aug. 4, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora kikuchii
- Background
- A soybean field in Franklin County was being scouted, and it was observed that 5% of the field was affected by yellowing, speckling, stippling, and wilting in patches throughout the field. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue was identified as Cercospora blight of soybean. This disease is caused by the pathogen Cercospora kikuchii, and although it's common in soybeans, it rarely causes significtant yield losses in North Carolina. Chemical management and cultural practices are both options to control Cercospora leaf blight.
- Resources