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Fall Soil Sampling for SCN Ensures Healthier Soybean Yields

Nov 13, 2024
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Simple steps for effective SCN soil sampling after fall harvest

With harvest completed, fall is an ideal time for farmers to collect soil samples to check for soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Testing for SCN in the soil offers essential information to understand recent soybean yields and better prepare for the next planting season.

By assessing SCN levels now, farmers can make informed decisions on managing soil health and boost future crop productivity.

Collecting fall soil samples for SCN has two main benefits. First, it helps explain the impact of SCN on the recent soybean yield from 2024.

Second, it enables farmers to gauge SCN presence in corn fields where soybeans will be planted in 2025, allowing them to take proactive measures for a successful yield.

Steps for SCN Sampling 

  • Sampling for SCN is straightforward and requires only a soil probe. Follow these steps: 
  • Use a soil probe and collect 15 to 20 soil cores from every 20 acres. 
  • Each core should reach a depth of around 8 inches. 
  • The more cores collected, the better the accuracy of results. 
  • Gather samples from agronomically similar areas in the field and combine them in a bucket. 
  • Mix soil cores well, then fill a labelled soil sample bag or plastic bag. 

SCN samples do not need refrigeration; room temperature storage works fine. Samples can be sent to the ISU Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic or processed by private soil-testing labs.

Managing SCN for Healthier Soybean Crops

If SCN is detected, a multi-step approach is recommended. Farmers can plant SCN-resistant soybean varieties and alternate these with corn, a non-host crop. Additionally, nematode-protectant soybean seed treatments can provide extra protection.

Resources like soybeancyst.info and TheSCNCoalition.com offer further guidance on SCN biology and effective management strategies.

Fall soil sampling is a simple yet powerful tool for maintaining healthy crops and maximizing yield potential. By taking this proactive step, farmers can safeguard their soil and ensure robust soybean production for the upcoming season.


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