The Plant Management Network (PMN) has posted two new webcasts in its Focus on Soybean series.

The first is titled “Soybean Cyst Nematode Management” by Dr. George W. Bird, Professor of Nematology at Michigan State University.

In his presentation, Dr. Bird covers topics that include

• SCN biology and host-parasite relationships


• Symptoms, and problem detection, diagnosis, and confirmation


• SCN management practices


• SCN type test vs. the current race system to use in selecting appropriate resistant varieties


• Seed treatments that include both chemical and biological controls

The second is titled “Evaluation of Seed-Applied Nematicide on Soybeans” by Tristan Mueller of the Iowa Soybean Association’s On-Farm Network.

In this presentation, Mr. Mueller presents the first year of results from evaluating the effect of Clariva SCN bacterial seed treatment across the state of Iowa. The results from this statewide study showed little yield response from using Clariva, but a significant negative effect of Clariva on SCN reproductive capability. This indicates that the seed-applied bacteria does affect the nematode. It will be interesting to see if prolonged use of this bacterial seed treatment will result in a continual decline in SCN population so that increased yields from SCN-infested fields will eventually be realized when this seed treatment is used over the long term.

Composed by Larry G. Heatherly, Apr. 2015, larryheatherly@bellsouth.net