Phytophthora Root and Stem Rot Developing in Soybeans

Cool conditions this spring prevented Phytophthora root and stem rot from causing many problems early in the growing season. However, as soils have warmed, this fungus has become active in irrigated fields and those that have received significant rain events over the past couple weeks. This soilborne disease, caused by Phytophthora sojae, has been confirmed in the following Nebraska counties: Lancaster, Saunders, Wayne, Harlan, and Hall counties in 2017 and is expected to be in other fields across the state.

Occasional stunted, wilted plants in the middle of otherwise healthy fields may be due to Phytophthora root and stem rot (Figures 1 and 2). This disease is most severe in poorly drained or flooded areas, including tire tracks from an irrigation system or low spots in a field. In the past we have observed that when drought-stressed fields receive heavy rains filling soil water levels to field capacity, it can result in significant disease development.

Phytophthora root and stem rot can damage plants throughout the year, causing pre- and post-emergent damping off in seedlings, and stem and root rots at later growth stages. Root and stem rots appearing this time of year are related to the level of genetic resistance in the plant.  Reddish-brown to black lesions start at the soil line and may extend several nodes up the stem. As the disease continues to develop, roots and stems turn brown and chlorotic or yellow, leaves wilt, but the petioles remain attached (Figure 3).