Soil Crusting
scouted Sept. 3, 2024
- Background
- Soybeans were scouted at the R6 growth stage and cracks along the soil surface as well as a crusting or flaked appearance to the soil was observed in widespread areas across the field. This environment has recently received substantial and recurring rain showers.
- Conclusion
- This issue was confirmed by an NC State Extension Specialist as soil crusting caused by heavy rain events. Soil crusting can occur due to structural degradation at the soil surface, after a heavy rain event, or limited rainfall. Symptomology associated with soil crusting can include uneven soybean emergence, swelling of the hypocotyl, physical crust or cracking along the soil surface, reduced water infiltration, an increase in soil erosion, and broken/damaged hypocotyls and cotyledons can be observed under the soil surface.
- Resources
