Soybean disease to be discussed during January conference

By Denice Ferguson University of Missouri Extension Submitted to Corner Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Growers can learn about a soybean disease confirmed for the first time in 2024 in Missouri during the Midwest Crop Conference. The two-day event will be held Jan. 21-22, at Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center in St. Joseph, Missouri.

University of Missouri Extension state plant pathologist Mandy Bish will discuss how red crown rot disease can significantly impact soybean yields.

In her presentation, she will also discuss other fungi that cause similar symptoms. This includes a fungus that was not on the radar of disease researchers prior to the 2024 season.

“We’ll also cover additional soybean disease concerns, including the breakdown of soybean resistance to Phytophthora, increasing reports of charcoal rot and Diaporthe, and management of soybean cyst nematode,” says Bish.

Bish is one of the researchers and specialists from three Midwestern universities who will offer research-based information to improve farm yields and profits in 2025.

“This conference offers a comprehensive exploration of current and critical crop topics, delivered by leading university agricultural specialists and researchers,” says Denice Ferguson, agricultural business and policy specialist with MU Extension.

Extension agronomists and economists from MU, University of Nebraska and Kansas State University will share their latest findings on corn, soybean and wheat pests and diseases, how to control input costs, cover crop management, nutrient management and what to expect in the 2025 growing season. Other speakers include leading agricultural industry experts. Other topics include the latest findings from the Missouri Strip Trial Program, weather impacts, biologicals, and soil and water management.

Certified Crop Advisors can receive up to 14 hours of Continuing Education Unit credits.

For more information, contact Denice Ferguson at the MU Extension Center in Buchanan County, 816-279-1691, or email her at deniceferguson@missouri.edu.

Register at https://extension.missouri.edu/events/2025-midwest-crops-conference.