Target Spot
scouted Oct. 9, 2025
- Scientific Name
- Corynespora cassiicola
- Background
- Soybeans in Onslow County were being scouted, and it was observed that 50% of the field had short/stunted plants. The plants initially suffered from water stress and then experienced drought conditions during their reproductive stages. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The last thing identified for this field was the target spot of soybean, caused by Corynespora cassiicola. This is a common pathogen in the state, but losses associated with it are rare. Infection requires high humidity and long periods of high moisture with free water resting on tissue surfaces. Cultural practices like crop residue destruction, managing weed hosts, and a crop rotation schedule that excludes hosts for several years are important to limiting disease losses.
- Resources
