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.

Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.