Seed decay and pod 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
- Diaporthe sp. The cause was identified as seed decay and pod blight, also previously known as Phomopsis blight. It's not a common occurrence in North Carolina, but persistent arm wet weather preceding and at crop maturity may increase damage caused by this disease. Evidence in mature plants can be seen on the stems and pods, and it appears as black specks (pycnidia) in the stems and pods.
- Resources
