Protect Your Fields from Soybean Cyst Nematodes 

Soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) are the #1 yield robber in soybeans, causing over $1 billion in losses each year.1 They are responsible for more yield loss than seedling diseases, sudden death syndrome (SDS) and white mold combined. This results in over 100 million bushels lost annually2 and as much as 5.1 bu/A yield loss per farm.*

 

When yield potential is at risk, it's important to get proactive in your fields and learn the signs of SCN and ways to stop it — before it's too late.

   

SCN Symptoms

Even though SCN affects the root systems of soybeans, there are some symptoms you can keep an eye out for above ground. If your field has the following symptoms, it may be time to soil sample for SCN:

  • Stunted plant growth
  • Yellowing leaves 
  • White or yellow cysts attached to soybean roots 
  • Uneven, patchy field appearance

   

Soil Sampling for SCN

In recent studies, SCN was detected in 91% of sampled fields, with more than half having damaging levels on SCN.3 That’s why it’s so important to use soil sampling as the most accurate way to detect levels. By sampling and monitoring your numbers, you can take a proactive approach to next season’s SCN protection. 

 

You can even use the lab results of SCN egg count, along with yield maps from previous harvests, to estimate how much yield they’re robbing from you.

Two sets of hands with a soil sample

How to Sample for SCN

Start soil sampling by taking samples in the fall from both non-host crop fields and soybean stubble. You can also take samples in the spring before planting soybeans and during the season in the soybean root zone.

 

Collect 15-20 or more 1-inch-diameter core samples, 8-inches deep, for every 20 acres. When you dig up roots, look for small white cysts on the root systems. Mix the cores well, put the mixed soil into a soil sample and send it to an SCN testing lab.

 

Use the following as your guide to sampling.

Soil Sample Collection Tips

Zig-zag pattern

Collect soil samples using a zig-zig pattern

Location Icon

Collect soil cores from logical areas or management zones in the field

Hazard icon

Collect soil cores from high-risk areas in the field where SCN might first be discovered

Protect Your Soybeans from SCN with BASF

Combat SCN with these proven BASF solutions.

Nemasphere® Nematode Resistance Trait

Nemasphere nematode resistance trait is the first and only biotechnology solution in SCN management.*

*Pending regulatory approval for crop year 2028

ILEVO® Seed Treatment

ILEVO seed treatment is the trusted, proven winner against soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) and sudden death syndrome (SDS). 

   

    

*Estimated revenue loss for 1,000 A soybean grower at $14.00/bu.

1 Crop Protection Network, 2021. SCN Coalition Grower Survey, 2020.

2 Crop Protection Network annual disease loss estimates.

3 BASF Sampling Projects: 2021-2024 (6,019 total samples).  

 

Nemasphere nematode resistance trait is not registered and is not available for sale. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to promote the sale of the product. Any sale of this product after registration is obtained shall be based solely on the EPA approved product label, and any claims regarding product safety and efficacy shall be addressed solely by the label.

 

Always read and follow label directions. ILEVO is a registered trademark and Nemasphere is a trademark of BASF. ©2026 BASF Agricultural Solutions US LLC. All Rights Reserved.