Cercospora leaf blight
scouted Aug. 21, 2025
- Background
- Soybeans in Granville County were being scouted, and it was observed that in 5% of the field, there were patches of plants with marginal browning and yellowing. The grower suspected nutrient issues but also feared disease, so plant and soil samples were submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis and NCDA for soil analysis.
- 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
