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Soybean Rust Contained to South, But Still a Threat

So far this year soybean rust hasn't been a problem. According to USDA Plant Pathology Program Leader Dr. Marty Draper there was a late freeze that pushed the rust back.  But he says it is in the south and is still a threat. Draper says the Midwest and Plains have experienced wet conditions, which contribute to soybean rust, however he says that it's been pretty dry over winter and because of that it hasn't come out of the kudzu and get into the soybeans much where it would really increase the number of spores blowing northward.

Draper says looking at some of the forecasting patterns there are spore depositions as far north as Tennessee, but infection may not happen. In past years, soybean rust has not really got going until mid to late August. Draper suggests to watch what's happening because it can change very rapidly. There is a network in place so producers can get an early warning and prepare themselves to fight potential rust. USDA's Pest Information Platform for Extension and Education is available at www.sbrusa.net.