There are multiple tactics for managing SCN:

• Rotation to nonhost crops
• Use of resistant varieties
• Use of seed treatment or in-furrow nematicides

What should growers in your state know about soil testing for SCN?

• Where in the field: Samples should be taken approximately 1 to 2 inches from the stem/stalk of the current crop. Samples are typically taken with a 1-inch diameter soil probe and should be 6 to 8 inches deep.  As you push the probe down you should feel roots snap.  The highest concentration of nematodes will be in the root zone. The more roots in a sample area will provide more nematodes.
• When: Nematode samples should be taken from a field in the fall if soybeans are to be planted the following spring. Normally in South Carolina these samples would be taken in October or November if the current crop is cotton, peanut, soybean or grain sorghum. If the current crop is corn these samples are normally taken right after harvest in August or September.
• How often: For best results sample in the Fall before soybeans are to be planted in the spring and after a soybean crop is harvested no matter what crop will be planted in the Spring.  This will tell you the SCN status of that field so you can be aware whether subsequent soybean crops are at risk from SCN.
• Where should soil test samples be sent? Clemson University, Nematode Assay Laboratory, 511 Westinghouse Rd. Pendleton, SC 29670

What growers should know about rotating to non-host crops?

• Soybean is the only crop that is affected by SCN.  Therefore, you can rotate to corn, peanut, or cotton to reduce numbers.
• If SCN numbers are very high then one year of rotation will not be sufficient to grow a subsequent soybean crop without utilizing a resistant variety or a nematicide.
• The more years out of soybean the more effective the rotation.  If you only rotate out for one year then you will need to plant a resistant variety or use a nematicide for the second year of consecutive soybeans after the nonhost rotation crop.