The longer this period, the greater the chance for disease loss. Continued soybean cropping has increased populations of the soilborne fungi Pythium spp. and R. solani. Do not use such seeds for planting purposes. The damage these fungi cause at times may be confused with herbicide damage, effects of low pH, or other seedling disorders. The following should help in recognizing seedling disease.
Pythium causes seed rot or kills young seedlings before or shortly after emergence.
Rhizoctonia on roots frequently kills young soybean plants. The infected area is firm, in contrast to Pythium. Fusarium occasionally causes a root rot problem on seedlings. Affected seedlings are stunted and weak. The lower part of the taproot and lateral root system may be destroyed.