Virginia Cooperative Extension
SCN is important because:
- SCN is widespread in soybean production areas of Virginia.
- In a typical year, SCN causes more yield loss in soybean than any other disease.
- SCN in fields increases the incidence and severity of several soil-borne diseases.
- Shorter rotations out of soybean have led to increased populations of SCN and other nematodes.
- Limited use and availability of nematicides have led to increased populations of SCN and other nematodes.
- SCN populations in Virginia have overcome major sources of genetic resistance in soybean varieties.
- SCN distribution.
SCN Management Recommendations
There are multiple tactics for managing SCN:
- Sample fields regularly – you cannot manage SCN populations unless you know your numbers.
- Integrated management is key – use a combination of cultural practices, host resistance, and seed-treatment nematicides.
- Crop rotation is the best option for reducing nematodes – rotate out of soybean to reduce SCN populations.
- Rotate varieties – if possible, do not rely on a single source of genetic resistance.
- Seed treatment nematicides – alone these may not provide adequate control, but they can be useful as part of an integrated management strategy.