Cercospora leaf blight
scouted Aug. 29, 2025
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora kikuchii
- Background
- Soybeans in Pamlico County were being scouted at the R5 growth stage, and it was observed that the leaves were looking leathery without the regular bronzing. Initially, the grower thought it was a nutrient deficiency and sent in a tissue sample, and every level came back at sufficient levels or higher. Then it started to spread across the field. The grower would like to rule out salt damage from Erin, so a sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- Cercospora kikuchiii. 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
