10/5/98

Contacts:
Greg Tylka, Plant Pathology, (515) 294-3021
Brian Meyer, Agriculture Information, (515) 294-0706

FALL'S THE TIME TO TEST FOR SOYBEAN PEST -- AT NEW ISU TEST PRICES

AMES -- Iowa State University's Plant Disease Clinic is discounting the cost of testing multiple soil samples for soybean cyst nematode, a serious pest problem in soybean fields.

Starting Oct. 1, the price for testing six to 10 samples for soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is $12 per sample, and the price for 11 or more samples is $10 per sample. The cost for processing five or fewer samples will remain at $15 per sample. Previously, each sample cost $15.

"We recommend growers collect soil samples to test for SCN following the harvest of corn and soybeans," said Greg Tylka, Extension plant pathologist. "Fall sampling provides growers with results they can use in next year's planting decisions."

SCN is a microscopic roundworm that attacks soybean roots. The pest is known to exist in 85 Iowa counties. Results of a recent soybean-checkoff-funded random survey indicate that approximately 70 percent of Iowa fields are infested with SCN.

Soil samples should be accompanied by a completed Plant Nematode Sample Submission Form (ISU Extension publication PD-32). The form is available at county extension offices or by calling the ISU Extension Distribution Center, (515) 294-5247. The address of the ISU Plant Disease Clinic is 323 Bessey Hall, Department of Plant Pathology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011-1020.

By calling a toll-free number, growers can get more information about testing soil for SCN, and on the biology and management of the pathogen. The number is 1-877-SCN-TEST (1-877-726-8378). For more information on SCN test prices, contact Carla Harris, (515) 294-1160.

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