SCN detected in higher percentage of surveyed fields 

By Scott Gabbard, Purdue On The Farm Senior Administrator 

Depending on where you farm and when you planted, we have either reached the seventh-inning stretch or are sitting through one more commercial break before harvest begins. As with every growing season, 2026 has been different from the one before it, delivering more than its share of unexpected challenges. 

Most of the information arriving at this point in the season has been weather-related, but we have also received results from our soybean cyst nematode (SCN) survey. Reports of foliar diseases continue to come in and will likely increase as the final round of field observations is completed. 

This year, SCN eggs were detected in a higher percentage of surveyed fields than in either of the previous two years. Thirteen of the 17 samples processed in 2026 tested positive for SCN, compared with three of 25 samples in 2025 and two of 16 samples in 2024. 

When interpreting these results, however, caution is warranted. The most important consideration is how the samples were collected. Soil was randomly sampled throughout each field using aggregated subsamples collected from a depth of four to eight inches. We know that SCN populations are often localized within a field and do not spread on their own. However, they can be moved rapidly within and between fields through soil movement caused by equipment, water or wind. Race testing was not conducted on the samples. Even so, SCN remains a potential yield-robbing threat across Indiana and warrants continued vigilance through regular monitoring and appropriate seed protection strategies. 

Weather, of course, has remained the dominant story of the season. Conditions were generally favorable early, although some replanting was necessary in low-lying wet areas. In many cases, those same areas were inundated again during June rainfall events or remained waterlogged for extended periods. 

Then came August. Heavy rainfall returned with devastating effects in some regions. Certain areas received more than 600 percent of normal August precipitation, while more than half the state recorded at least 200 percent of normal rainfall for the month. More than two weeks after the Aug. 11 rainfall event, standing water remains in some fields. 

While complete crop loss has occurred in some locations, the fields that remain productive deserve immediate attention. Harvest plans and grain-handling strategies should be reviewed now for flood-affected acres. Producers should prioritize scouting waterlogged fields before harvest to determine whether field conditions, crop health, or standability warrant adjustments to their harvest schedule. 

In corn, harvestability is a growing concern because of weakened stalks and root death resulting from prolonged saturation. Growers in areas where ears were submerged should also consider disease and grain-quality risks during harvest and storage. Soybean fields face similar concerns. Premature root death caused by oxygen deprivation can increase the likelihood of lodging, particularly if strong storm systems move through before harvest. 

Wind, excessive rainfall, prolonged cloud cover, and even Canadian wildfire smoke have all contributed to this season’s roller-coaster growing conditions. Purdue faculty and staff would like your input as we continue tracking the effects of these environmental stresses on Indiana crops. You can participate by scanning the accompanying QR code on this page. 

If you have not already done so, we also encourage you to contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency office as soon as possible if your operation has been affected by flooding. Reporting losses promptly can help ensure eligibility for assistance programs if additional disaster funding becomes available.