Loren J. Giesler, Extension Plant Pathologist


Pathogen

Stem canker is divided into two diseases (Northern and Southern Stem Canker). In Nebraska we have only observed northern stem canker caused by the fungus Diaporthe phaseolorum var. caulivora. The fungus normally survives the winter in infested crop debris and has been shown to be associated with seed. It is thought that infested crop debris is the primary inoculum source for disease development. Spores are produced and infections occur during the early vegetative stages of the crop. Infections remain latent until the soybean plant is in the reproductive stages.

Disease Symptoms

Stem canker is first noticed during the latter half of the growing season. Reddish-brown stem lesions develop during the early reproductive stages of plants. Lesions will usually be in the vicinity of a stem node. A diagnostic symptom of stem canker is that green stem tissue will usually be present both above and below individual stem cankers. As the disease progresses, cankers will enlarge, longitudinally, turn dark brown to black in color, become slightly sunken and eventually completely girdle stems. At this point, the free flow of nutrients and water is disrupted in the plant. Cankers, which coalesce, may be confused with stem discoloration caused by Phytophthora. However, stem canker usually forms higher on the plant than does Phytophthora. Severe stem canker can result in premature, and often sudden, plant death. Foliage of diseased plants initially exhibits interveinal yellowing. This is followed by tissue death between the veins. Eventually, leaves die and usually remain attached to leaf stems (petioles).

Foliar Symptoms Large Field Area
foliar symptom image
large field area image
Death Canker on Stem
death root image
canker on stem image

Favorable Environmental Conditions

The severity of stem canker is highly dependent on the weather conditions during early crop development. Rainy, wet weather favors disease development. Fields which have hail damage have been observed to have more stem canker.

Management

Genetic Resistance

Soybean varieties vary in their susceptibility to stem canker and resistance has been identified to this disease. Select resistant varieties for fields with a history of high stem canker incidence.

Cultural Practices

Use crop rotation to reduce inoculum in fields. Incorporation of residue will reduce inoculum and disease potential. Minimize plant stress with good agronomic practices.

Chemical/Biological Control

Fungicide applications during reproductive growth stages have been shown to reduce disease severity, but results vary greatly.

NebGuide

Additional Resources

  • North Central Soybean Research and Education Initiative: Stem Canker