Ames, Iowa (RI) — A soybean disease called sudden death syndrome – or SDS — is showing up in more fields this year due to a wet growing season. Iowa State University Extension plant pathologist Daren Mueller says a soil fungus causes SDS, largely by producing a toxin that’s absorbed into the soybean’s leaves, which turn yellow and die.
Mueller says treatment is not an option once SDS is detected, but farmers can consider different soybean varieties and seed treatments next year. He says planting later in affected acres can also decrease the risk of the disease.
Mueller made his comments on the Iowa Public Radio show “River to River.”
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