The Emerging Challenge of Red Crown Rot in Midwest Soybean Farming

Reagan Hoskin felt her adherence to rules was inherent. After finishing high school in 2018, she spent the summer monitoring crops for her father with precision. Her duties included zigzagging through soybean fields, assessing crops from strategic viewpoints, and reporting anomalies. One day, while examining her family’s farm in Pike County, Illinois, she discovered yellow plants at its edge. Regrettably, she would have to inspect them, deviating from her usual routine.

Recognizing soybean diseases previously, she suspected sudden death syndrome but noticed unusual leaf symptoms. In the subsequent eight years, the fungus Hoskin saw barely increased understanding about ‘red crown rot,’ initially identified in the Midwest by her. This disease can cause up to a 60% loss in yields under severe conditions. Soybeans, bringing billions of dollars to Illinois, face risks from such diseases, further burdened by trade issues.

Reagan’s father, Ron Hoskin, mentioned that it wasn’t until 2024 that the disease drew attention as it appeared across Illinois and neighboring states. Initially disregarded due to its origin from Pike County, red crown rot now affects over ten counties in Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana, as mapped by the Crop Protection Network. Minnesota first identified it in August 2025, followed by Wisconsin shortly thereafter.

Ron Hoskin, after years of monitoring the fungus, consulted Matt Montgomery, an agricultural expert. Montgomery, equipped with practical tools like a cowboy hat and notebook, undertakes field surveys and provides insights into red crown rot. He described the disease’s unprecedented impact on soybean yields.

Ron Hoskin, seen on his farm in August 2026, expressed frustration over the disease’s continual spread. Despite challenges, hopes lie in a new seed treatment scheduled for widespread use in the upcoming planting season. This treatment might prevent future infections, avoiding the potential need to switch exclusively to corn.

The red crown rot fungus has existed in the South, affecting soybeans and peanuts since the 1970s. Recent genetic analysis indicates Illinois samples are not from the Southeastern U.S. Transport mechanisms remain unclear, though hypotheses suggest airborne or soil movement. Research persists.

By 2018, red crown rot spread across Midwest soybean regions originating from Pike County, notes Montgomery, affiliated with Beck’s Hybrids, a leading seed company. Its effects reduce yields severely, as seen in drastically diminished bushel outputs.

First seen centrally in Illinois, the disease has expanded since 2025. Climate change might contribute to its growth, remarks Damon Smith from the University of Wisconsin. Warm, moist conditions foster disease spread. Midwestern temperature changes may invite foreign crop diseases northward.

Symptoms of red crown rot manifest around August, though early sightings this year link to heavy rainfall, suggests Smith. The fungus remains in soil throughout the year, invasive to soybean roots. Observations equate these impacts to removing foundational supports causing collapse. Survivors yield fewer crops.

Infected plants show yellowing leaves, premature browning, and red structures at their base. The phenomenon typically spreads unevenly. Survivor plants remain amidst infected patches.

Originally viewed with scientific curiosity, it took several harvests for Ron Hoskin to register its economic implications. Substantial yield deficits prompted a deeper investigation.

Despite hosting research plots from the University of Illinois, communication with researchers hindered progress until the disease’s broader reach in 2024. Confirmed cases followed in Wisconsin, raising questions about its transmission.

Ultimately classified as a ‘Corn Belt level disease,’ red crown rot affects corn and soybean-rich areas intensely. Red crown rot studies continue.

The three-pronged prevention plan includes seed treatments, resistant soybean varieties, and stress management strategies. Although no complete resistance exists, ongoing research strives for partial solutions.

The fungus’s transmission method remains contentious, whether via soil or possibly airborne. Understanding its travel can refine prevention techniques.

The Hoskin family weighs planting decisions carefully. While considering switching to corn, rotational practices maintain soil health. Techniques like strip tilling, offering soil preservation benefits, remain costly.

With Victrato reportedly delaying symptoms, researchers maintain cautious optimism. Detection and monitoring employ advanced AI and satellite imagery, expediting diagnosis.

Farmers like Calvin Koeller witness profound effects on yields. However, Montgomery advocates for measured responses, ensuring accurate diagnosis and robust management strategies.

In early August, Ron Hoskin observed changing field colors, indicating Victrato’s effectiveness might need improvements. Optimistically planting soybeans again depends on extended favorable conditions.

Ultimately, as they approach harvest, the Hoskins manage concerns with hope, maintaining readiness for new strategies should challenges persist.