Cercospora leaf spot
scouted Aug. 18, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora kikuchii
- Background
- A soybean field in Stokes County was being scouted, and it was observed that 15% of the field was affected by browning, leaf spot, and rot in random patches of the field. There was also chewing and skeletonized plants. 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