Deer Feeding Damage

scouted May 15, 2024

Background
Soybeans were scouted at the V1 growth stage and signs of prominent deer feeding were observed. This field boarders a tree line on two sides. These were soybeans planted in research plots and the damage observed was seen across all plots.
Conclusion
This injury was confirmed by a NC State Extension Specialist as damage from deer feeding. Damage from deer feeding or grazing can depend on the size and location of a field in correlation to tree lines or other preferable food sources, the time spent grazing, as well as the growth stage at the time of feeding. In many areas of this environment the deer ate below the cotyledonary node. These plants will not recover, and may cause yield loss. However, in some areas of this environment the deer did not eat below the cotyledonary node. These plants will have the opportunity to recover.

Looking for more?

Find information on current and past problems in our library.

Browse all problems