Phytophthora Root Rot Alert
This past Friday, we observed phytophthora root rot notes near Bloomington, Illinois. This is a highly unusual occurrence and could repeat itself across the Midwest due to heavy rainfall, saturated souls, and elevated soil temperatures.
Key Factors:
1.) Saturated Soils (Especially in low lying areas where water accumulates).
2.) Elevated soil temperatures (Phytophthora can hit any temperature and becomes most damaging as temps rise).
3.) The absence of a gene for specific race resistance
4.) Phytophthora tolerance is not directly linked to the presence of a specific gene. Varieties with average, or weak, phytophthora root rot tolerance are at risk.
5.) Ultimately, soybean plants without adequate phytophthora root rot protections will eventually die, having a direct impact on final yield.
