Soybean stem canker
scouted Aug. 24, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Diaporthe sp.
- Background
- A soybean field in Greene County was being scouted, and it was observed that 20% of the field was affected by defoliation, yellowing between the veins, scorch/burn, and stem rot. The field is a sunny, high, and dry site. There is suspicion of brown stem rot and sudden death syndrome. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- This issue was identified as Soybean Stem Canker. Symptoms associated with soybean stem canker can include reddish-brown lesions on the main stem at the base of a lower stem, small black spots that appear on dead tissue, and dead leaves that remain attached to the stem. There are no options to remedy this issue in this season; however, you can best manage this disease with resistant varieties and crop rotation to non-host crops such as corn or wheat.
- Resources