The Successful Farming® Crop Crew reports phytophthora in Illinois, stinkbugs and frogeye leaf spot in Kentucky as growers face mounting pressure
The Successful Farming® Crop Crew agronomists have spent the last 12 weeks reporting real-time, boots-on-the-ground insights, as they support growers and scout fields. The Crop Crew’s photos of soybean crops for the week ending June 21 highlighted pressure from diseases and insects across key production areas.
Phytophthora in Northwest Illinois
Drew Beckman reported phytophthora in his territory of northwestern Illinois during the week ending June 21.
“Consistently wet conditions are leading to outbreaks of soilborne diseases, such as phytophthora,” Beckman said. “While this is later in the season than we normally see this disease infect, we are currently sitting in optimal conditions for an outbreak to occur.”
Soybeans in Illinois were the fourth-lowest-rated of the crop in the top 18 states, according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report. Only soybeans in Ohio, North Carolina, and Louisiana had lower good-to-excellent ratings.
Stinkbugs and Frogeye Leaf Spot in Kentucky
Rob Nalley shared photos of two pests from his territory last week — stinkbugs and frogeye leaf spot — but they’re to be expected, he said.
“While scouting fields, I have begun to observe some frogeye leaf spot and increasing stinkbug activity,” Nalley said. “These are common pests in the region and not unusual for this time of year.”
Soybeans in Kentucky were the sixth highest rated of the crop in the top 18 states, according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report. Only soybeans in Tennessee, Iowa, Arkansas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin had higher good-to-excellent ratings.
What this means for growers
The combination of wet conditions in Illinois and pest pressure in Kentucky highlights the regional variability in crop conditions. Phytophthora, a soilborne disease, thrives in wet conditions and can cause significant yield loss if left unmanaged. Frogeye leaf spot, while common, can also reduce yields if conditions remain favorable for its spread.
Stinkbug activity typically increases as soybeans enter reproductive stages, making scouting and timely management decisions critical for protecting yield potential. Growers are advised to continue scouting fields regularly and consult with their agronomists for management recommendations.
