Cercospora leaf blight
scouted Aug. 25, 2025
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora kikuchii
- Background
- Soybeans in Wilkes County were being scouted, and it was observed that 10% of the field in random patches was being affected by wilting and yellowing between the veins. Last fungicide and insecticide spray at this site was 3 and a half weeks before the report, but the pattern doesn't seem to indicate chemical injury. Disease seems to be spreading from the original patches. Full pods are developing in unaffected parts of 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 significant yield losses in North Carolina. Chemical management and cultural practices are both options to control Cercospora leaf blight.
- Resources
