Cercospora leaf spot
scouted Sept. 21, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora kikuchii
- Background
- A soybean field, variety S49XF43S, in Bertie County was being scouted, and it was observed that 5% of the field was affected in patches by defoliation, galls, root rot, stem rot, stunting, and wilting. 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