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ArticleBrownfield Ag NewsJul 21, 2026

Could Soybean Cyst Nematode Threaten Your Yields Year-Round?

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) can significantly reduce yields without visible symptoms, urging farmers to scout continuously.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on Brownfield Ag News. How our briefs are made

Source published Jul 21, 2026. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementcrop yieldssoybean production

Source summary

What this article covered

The Hidden Threat of SCN

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is a soil-borne pathogen that can significantly impact soybean yields without any visible symptoms. This makes it a particularly insidious threat for farmers.

Importance of Continuous Scouting

Horacio Lopez-Nicora stresses the need for farmers to scout their fields regularly for SCN throughout the growing season. This vigilance is essential to mitigate potential yield losses.

Challenges in Eradication

Once SCN is introduced into the soil, it is very unlikely that farmers will be able to eradicate it. This emphasizes the importance of prevention and management strategies.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    SCN can reduce soybean yields significantly without visible symptoms.

  2. 02

    Continuous scouting for SCN is essential throughout the growing season.

  3. 03

    Once SCN is present in the soil, eradication is highly unlikely.

  4. 04

    Farmers need to adopt proactive management strategies to mitigate SCN risks.

  5. 05

    Awareness of SCN's impact is crucial for maintaining soybean yield potential.

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