The safety and well-being of our community is our highest priority. We know the recent news and allegations are deeply concerning, and we are committed to a safe environment for all. For more information, please see the official Cornell University statements.

Alert Close

Fusarium wilt

Fusarium oxysporum

Fusarium wilt is a soilborne disease of growing concern in soybean production areas of NY.  It has been confirmed in a handful of counties, and is likely more widespread.  It can be difficult to diagnose or differentiate from other diseases or stresses.  Infection is favored by cool temperatures and wet soils during early vegetative growth stages.  Plants are infected during early reproductive stages, but symptoms appear later in the season, and are exacerbated by hot, dry weather, when infected plants begin to wilt.  In addition to wilting, symptoms include brown discoloration of the vascular system in the roots and stems, and foliage may become chlorotic and defoliation may occur. 

Reducing soil compaction, delaying planting until soil temperatures are favorable for seed germination, crop rotation and seed treatments applied to high quality seed are good management practices for minimizing losses to Fusarium wilt. 

soy leaves at different stages of disease, green, yellowed, and brown
Image source: Jaime Cummings
soy plants in field, yellowing and wilting
Image source: Mike Stanyard
A field of soy with yellowing and wilting leaves and stems
Image source: Mike Stanyard
Soy stem brown and dried
Image source: Jaime Cummings
cross section of a plant stem with disease symptoms
Image source: Jaime Cummings