Ontario 2012 Soybean Crop Facing Disease Battle

Aug 07, 2012

Diseases Thriving in Ontario Soybean Crop Due to Drought Conditions

The 2012 Ontario soybean crop is being plagued with a variety of diseases due to the combination of hot and dry weather conditions. According to Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Pathologist Albert Tenuta, the diseases that are most prevalent in this year’s crop are stem canker fusarium wilt and charcoal rot.

These diseases should be a cause for concern as they put a significant amount of stress on soybeans, allowing the crop to be more susceptible to other soil based pathogens. The ministry is encouraging farmers to scout their fields on a regular basis to catch diseases at their early stages and re-examine best management practices to mitigate the damage. Sometimes the damages are irreversible and all farmers can do is start planning for next year, selecting resistant varieties for the following planting year.

The ministry also reminds growers that regular crop rotation will be vital in order to help combat soybean infested residue from remaining in the soils surface. Utilizing a combination of good management practices including crop rotation and spraying fungicide are important tools that should be utilized.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.