Soybean sudden death syndrome saw a significant increase in North Dakota in 2024, spreading beyond its previous limited presence. “Before 2024, we’d only had it in a few fields in Richland County and Cavalier County up by the Canadian border,” said NDSU Extension Soybean Specialist Wade Webster. “In 2024, we saw that across the southeast portion of the state start to expand outward at higher levels than what we have seen in years past.” The disease thrives in corn-soybean rotations and wet conditions, making management crucial. Webster emphasized the role of soybean cyst nematodes in worsening SDS. “SDS is increasing in severity when it’s also in the presence of soybean cyst.” Farmers are encouraged to scout fields, plant resistant varieties, and consider seed treatments if the pathogen is present.
