Soil Crusting and Drought
scouted June 17, 2024
- Background
- Soybeans were scouted at the V2 growth stage and cracks along the soil surface, stunted growth, and poor emergence was observed in widespread areas across the field. These were soybeans planted on May 29th and there has been little to no sufficient rainfall since.
- Conclusion
- This issue was confirmed by an NC State Extension Specialist as soil crusting caused by drought. 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, and broken/damaged hypocotyls and cotyledons can be observed under the soil surface.
- Resources
