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From Seeds to Solutions Highlights from MSR&PC’s 2025 Research Projects

Table of Contents 4. Soybean Breeding and Genetics 5. Breeding for SCN Resistance in Minnesota 6. 2025 Soybean Research Center Update 8. 2025 Western Minnesota Soybean IPM Survey 9. 2025 On-farm IDC & SCN Test Plots & Field Day 10. Developing Answers for Managing Soybean Root and Stem Diseases

11. Herbicide Options for Waterhemp Control in Soybeans After First Failed Application of Glufosinate

12. Delving deep: Evaluating soil moisture dynamics,

evapotranspiration and yield in response to cover crop termination timing and herbicide strategies in soybean

14. Assessing the efficacy of seed treatment nematicides

for management of SCN, SDS in the growth room and greenhouse conditions

16. Nutrient Management for Profitable Soybean Production 18. 2025 Adjuvant Tank Mix Impact on 2,4-D, Lactofen, and

22. Multifaceted Approaches in Understanding Sclerotinia Stem Rot Disease Avoidance and Resistance

24. Genetics of Soybean Cyst Nematode Virulence and

Morphological Traits, and Development of Molecular Tools for HG Type Test

26. More Returns, Less Risk: Selecting Soybean Cultivars for Drought-Prone Fields

27. Carbon Credits in Minnesota: Evaluating the Dual

Impact of Agricultural Management Practices on Carbon Sequestration and Crop Yield

28. Advancing Integrated Pest Management for Soybean Gall Midge and Soybean Aphid

30. New biotechnology to improve and understand soybean traits 31. The Impact of Row Spacing on Season Long Metrics of Soybean Crop Health: A “Hands-on” Learning Plot

32. Why Are My Soybeans Turning Yellow? What Two

Minnesota Fields Taught Us About Iron Deficiency Chlorosis

34. A Look Ahead: 2026 Research Projects

Glufosinate on Waterhemp and Giant Ragweed in Soybean

20. Developing resistance management guidelines and evaluating quantitative resistance to Phytophthora sojae in Minnesota

The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council thanks the following directors and staff for their contributions to the 2025 Research Report: MSR&PC Chair Gail Donkers MSR&PC Director Corey Hanson MSR&PC Director of Research Sergio Cabello Leiva Communications Specialist Grace Britton Administrative Assistant Wendy Atherton-Stoen

Communications Project Manager Deanna Kanne Sr. Communications Manager Drew Lyon Graphic Designer Alex Troska Communications Specialist Allison Wright

Research rewards: Raising value, delivering ROI As a farmer and chair of Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council’s research action team, it’s my pleasure to introduce our second annual Research Report. Our debut issue highlighting checkoff-funded research projects from Fiscal Year 2024 was a huge success — it’s always a good sign when all available copies are scooped up. Thus, it was unanimous among our committee and Council to publish a second edition with updates from Fiscal Year 2025 projects. In this edition, you’ll once again read important updates from over 20 research projects across our priority areas, including weed and pest management; soybean breeding and genetics; and agronomy. It’s clear to me that in Minnesota, we’re working with the best of the best in soybean research. I’m not just a checkoff director, but also a farmer who’s hosting research (including the 2025 OnFarm IDC & SCN Test Plots & Field Day) on my farm. It’s one of my top priorities to deliver this research to farmers to provide the necessary tools to address production and agronomic issues across our vast state. I’d like to thank our Research Director, Sergio Cabello Leiva, for his collaboration and leadership in helping compile this project. Sergio’s passion for all things farming and research is truly infectious, not to mention extremely informative. Sergio and I can talk shop for hours about everything from soil health to emerging diseases to crop conditions and, of course, the weather. I’d also like to tip my cap to Bob Lindeman, who represents MSR&PC on the North Central Soybean Research Program, a 13-state collaborative that leverages checkoff research to the fullest extent. My farmer colleagues and I take pride in volunteering each winter to approve proposals during meetings with public and private researchers. Once the action team offers recommendations, the Council votes for final approval during our April board meeting before funding is released in May. I encourage my fellow farmers to take a close look at these projects and learn more about the cutting-edge projects our soy checkoff is supporting. On top of visiting mnsoybean.org, I also recommend visiting other websites (including ncsrp.com and soybeanresearchinfo.com) that showcase the many ongoing projects that are hoping to solve today’s, and tomorrow’s, production challenges. Corey Hanson, MSR&PC District 1, 2 & 3 Director

Minnesota’s soybean checkoff is over 50 years strong. In fact, Minnesota was the first state to start its own checkoff program. Some of the very first checkoff dollars ever invested helped fund breeding research at the University of Minnesota. As we look ahead to the 2030s, the soy checkoff continues to make soybean research a high priority by developing new varieties and genetics; addressing production challenges; promoting soil health and addressing weed and pest management. Minnesota, of course, is a large state. The drive from my family farm in Faribault in southeast Minnesota to Hallock in far northwestern Minnesota is over six hours — farther than it would take me to travel to Kansas City, Mo. At the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, our farmer leaders always keep in mind that each region in our state faces distinct production issues: different weather patterns and growing seasons; varying soil types; and unique pests and diseases. No two Minnesota farms are exactly alike. But one common thread emerges despite our geographic differences: As growers, we continue to seek new varieties and production practices; better quality soybeans with increased nutritional value; stronger yields; and, ultimately, higher profitability. As chair of MSR&PC, I’m proud to work alongside 14 other elected leaders and CEO Tom Slunecka in directing checkoff funds toward projects that help make Minnesota soybeans the highest quality beans in the world. Thanks to innovation from our farmers, along with collaboration from our research — together, we make a winning team. Gail Donkers, MSR&PC Chair/District 8 Director

Soybean Breeding and Genetics Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Aaron Lorenz Research importance: The development and adoption of new soybean cultivars with higher yield, enhanced seed composition and resistance to various stresses help Minnesota soybean farmers achieve profitability. Most soybean cultivars purchased by farmers were developed by private seed companies, yet public soybean breeding still has an important role. The University of Minnesota Soybean Breeding program is a broad-based research and development program dedicated to advancement of soybean germplasm adapted to Minnesota; development of new breeding methods; discovery of new economically important traits and genes; the education of professionals in the agricultural industry, especially new plant breeders. The advancement of soybean germplasm for Minnesota takes multiple forms, ranging from the release and licensure of general-purpose soybean varieties, to the development of specialty soybean varieties that command a premium for producers, to the integration of novel forms of pest resistance and seed composition into elite northernadapted soybean varieties, effectively creating a bridge between researchers and the soybeans grown in farmers’ fields. We make our discoveries on the genetic control of economically important traits and breeding method improvements publicly available, contributing to the overall knowledge base that benefits all breeding programs, both public and private.

Research Conducted: This past year, we carried out the routine activities of our established breeding program. We made 75 new crosses, advanced generations of breeding in our winter nursery in Chile, planted yield trials across 11 Minnesota locations, collected samples for compositional analysis, and multiplied seeds of promising new breeding lines for release as cultivars. We also carried out the UMN Soybean Variety Trials and published the results comparing the performance of more than 88 commercial varieties. Findings: We had a successful year in terms of germplasm and cultivar releases and transfers to private companies. We submitted invention disclosures on nine new lines that were transferred to private companies for testing. Moreover, we licensed seven new cultivars to two different breeding companies for either direct commercialization or use as a breeding parent. This release of germplasm represents the success our program is having is identifying new elite cultivars with unique traits such as high protein, aphid resistance and high oleic fatty acid composition. We have enhanced our webpage to better promote our varieties: https://mncrops.umn.edu/soybean.

Summary of recently released soybean lines from the University of Minnesota. Breeder’s seed is available for all lines Line

Type

Yield (†)

Protein

Oil

Lodging

IDC index

SCN

PRR

M18-200026

CONV, HOLL

0.6

48.7

41.3

21.2

1.2

1.7

Gray

M07297007HOLL-4

CONV, HOLL

1.7

54.5

43.3

21.1

2.2

2.4

Black

M08362051HOLL-7

CONV, HOLL

1.8

60.1

41.4

2.2

Yellow

M07297007HOLL-1

CONV, HOLL

1.9

55.7

43.4

21.4

1.7

2.2

M08362051HOLL-5

CONV, HOLL

1.9

59.1

41.3

22.2

2.5

Yellow

S R

M13-171089

CONV, Natto

0.3

38.4

38.9

20.8

2.5

2.1

Yellow

MN0507CN (M13257047)

CONV, SOYMILK

0.5

46.5

40.2

21.5

1.1

2.1

Yellow

M13-266011

CONV, SOYMILK

1.6

47.4

41.8

20.4

1.3

1.7

Yellow

M18-154059

CONV, TOFU

0.7

50.33

43.3

19.5

1.3

Yellow

M14-250018

CONV, TOFU

1.4

49.7

42.3

21.1

2.1

Yellow

M18-105005

CONV, TOFU

1.6

60.3

42.2

20.6

1.6

Yellow

S R

Yield (†) = Soybean yield is an overall average across many locations in Minnesota; use only as a reference; for more detail, contact Dr. Aaron Lorenz Conv = Conventional line; HOLL = High Oleic low linolenic; RM: Relative Maturity; HC: Hilum color; PRR: Phytophthora root rot R = Resistant, MR = Moderately resistant, MS = Moderately susceptible, S = Susceptible, T = Tolerant: IDC Index = Iron Deficiency Chlorosis Index For more details, contact Dr. Aaron Lorenz or visit the University of Minnesota’s available soybean germplasm (https://mncrops.umn.edu/soybean/germplasm/high-oleic)

Breeding for SCN Resistance in Minnesota Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Aaron Lorenz Research importance: Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) remains one of the most damaging pests affecting soybean production in Minnesota. While many growers have relied on SCN-resistant varieties for years, SCN populations are changing, and some can now overcome the most common source of resistance found in commercial soybean varieties. Because of this, Minnesota soybean growers need new varieties with stronger and more diverse sources of resistance. Research Conducted: This project focused on developing the next generation of SCN-resistant soybean varieties while also providing unbiased information about the effectiveness of commercially available resistant varieties. During 2025, University of Minnesota researchers advanced thousands of breeding lines carrying SCN resistance through field nurseries and yield trials. More than 1,200 SCN-resistant lines were advanced for future testing, including over 200 lines carrying alternative, non-88788 sources of resistance. These alternative resistance sources are important

because they provide additional tools for managing SCN populations that can overcome traditional resistance. Researchers also continued developing breeding lines resistant to HG Type 1.2.5.7, a particularly challenging SCN population that can reproduce on both PI 88788 and Peking resistance sources. A newly identified breeding line with strong resistance was incorporated into a crossing program to develop higher-yielding and earlier-maturing varieties adapted to Minnesota. Findings: In addition to breeding activities, the project provided independent testing of soybean varieties and resistance sources, helping growers make informed seed selection decisions. Results were shared through University of Minnesota variety trials, field days and outreach events. Ultimately, this work strengthens the long-term durability of SCN resistance and helps protect soybean yield and profitability across Minnesota.

Table 1. Key Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) resistance findings from the University of Minnesota Soybean Breeding Program. Resistance source

Genetic finding

SCN response/significance

PI 567516C

Novel SCN-resistance gene on a different chromosome

Potential for broader resistance beyond PI 88788

PI 90763

Resistance controlled by ≥4 genes

Resistant to HG 1.2.5.7, which overcomes PI 88788 and Peking

PI 437654

Resistance controlled by ≥4 genes

Resistant to HG 1.2.5.7 and to a broader field SCN population

Standard resistance sources

Both can be overcome by HG 1.2.5.7 in Minnesota

PI 88788 / Peking

† SCN = soybean cyst nematode; HG = Heterodera glycines type; PI = Plant Introduction. PI 90763 and PI 437654 are being incorporated into early-maturity soybean germplasm. Source: Brown, C. (2026), SRIN Research Highlight, reporting findings from A. Lorenz, University of Minnesota.

Watch Aaron Lorenz’s research synopsis here:

2025 Soybean Research Center Update Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Aaron Lorenz This report updates the prior Research Report using information contained in the 2025 quarterly reports. New accomplishments, breeding pipeline metrics, yield trial entries and HG Type 1.2.5.7 resistance-development activities were incorporated. Objective 1. Continue developing the University of Minnesota Soybean Research Center for all (present and future) UMN soybean researchers to join and participate in. Goal 1. Elevate UMN soybean research through providing the opportunity for creation of synergy among all soybean researchers from different disciplines. Goal 2. Enhance communication and coordination of UMN soybean research activities through a better and more sustained and coordinated presence on the web, social media, press releases and outreach events. Goal 3. Attract new researchers to soybean from a broad array of departments that do not traditionally work on agricultural commodities such as soybean. During this annual period, the UMN Soybean Research Center (SRC) hosted and participated in several activities to increase collaboration, belonging and promotion of UMN research to increase the profitability and resiliency of the MN soybean industry. Our first main activity was to help host the North Central Soybean Research Program annual meeting. Leveraging our in-house expertise and connections made possible by the SRC funding, we were able to host a group of approximately 30-40 NCSRP farmer representatives and research staff. We organized field tours, presentations, dinners and off-site tours displaying our agricultural industry in Minnesota. Secondly, we hosted our second biannual SRC field day on the St. Paul Campus. The day started with a “lunch-andlearn” networking event for MSRPC-identified young leaders. Presentations were provided by MSRPC farmer leaders, UMN SRC researchers and Associate Dean Mike Schmidt. Next, tours of field plots on campus were given by researchers, followed by a networking dinner and optional football game. The day was deemed a great success by many in attendance and continued to help build strong relationships between farmers, industry leaders and university researchers and students. The next key activity we hosted was a soybean research symposium on campus. About 40 campus researchers gathered for five “mini-presentations” from campus researchers (grad students and postdocs) across multiple departments. A poster session followed. Such events are

helpful for researchers working on soybeans to be exposed to and make connections across departments. The creation of an external steering committee has long been a goal of ours. The purpose of the external steering committee is to help provide guidance on research priorities that would have the greatest impact on the soybean industry. Because soybean production is a private sector endeavor, it is extremely useful to obtain advice from important players in the private sector. Fortunately, the strong relationships between UMN researchers and MSR&PC has provided ample opportunity for research guidance from farmer leaders. In addition to this guidance, we believed it would be advantageous to also add industry guidance as well. With this goal in mind, we assembled a steering committee of five industry experts: •

Dr. Aileen Joy, Land O’Lakes Inc., Animal Nutrition Formulation Technical Manager

•

Eric Spandl, Winfield United, Product and Market Development Manager

•

Blake Murnan, CHS Inc., Director of Seed Applied Technologies

•

Craig Tomera, Grain Millers, Identity Preserved Crop Specialist

•

David Pfarr, Corteva Agrisciences, Strategic Account Manager

We met on March 30 for a half-day meeting. The advisory committee emphasized several priorities for future soybean research and outreach. Key themes included improving communication and access to university research, addressing changing markets and emerging demands, and evaluating new agricultural technologies such as see-and-spray systems, robotic weeders, laser weed control and advanced field phenotyping. Members stressed the need for systems-level, long-term research that helps growers assess profitability and effectively use increasing amounts of agronomic data. Additional opportunities included expanding domestic soybean utilization, improving soybean meal quality characterization and exploring alternative cropping systems. The committee also highlighted the importance of student training in communication, business fundamentals, statistics, data literacy and practical problem-solving skills. In line with the committee’s input, we made steps toward making our research more accessible. Over the last several months, we have compiled all SRC research publications by subject, listed the title and a brief layperson-friendly summary. We hope this will make our work more accessible and transparent to a larger audience. Please see this website and click on each subject area: soybeanresearchcenter.umn. edu/our-research.

Watch Aaron Lorenz’s research synopsis here:

2025 Western Minnesota Soybean IPM Survey Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Angie Peltier & Anthony Hanson Research importance: Minnesota soybean farmers continue to face new and emerging pests. With two new soybean pests found in Minnesota in the past 5 years, “boots in the field” trained to look for both current and invasive pests improve our chances of early detection. This survey expands our ability to obtain field reports on crop conditions and pest activity to tailor outreach to crop managers through radio, digital newsletters and through the ag press. Research conducted: A total of 469 soybean fields were visited in 2025, resulting in several articles, webinars and radio interviews. At each field, scouts swept for grasshoppers. Soybeans were inspected for growth stage, soybean aphid incidence and severity, presence of aphids colonized by parasitic wasps, bean leaf beetle incidence and chewing injury severity, two spotted spider mite (TSSM) presence on edge/inside fields, soybean gall midge presence inside/on edge of fields, soybean tentiform leafminer presence, incidence and injury severity of foliage-feeding caterpillars, Japanese beetle incidence, frogeye leaf spot and Cercospora leaf blight incidence and severity and Phytophthora root rot incidence.

Findings: Soybeans reached full pod or beginning seed growth stages in northern locations by survey’s end, with fields further south delayed by planting delays. Soybean aphid incidence began to increase in late July, increasing to 80-100%, particularly in the central counties (Clay, Becker, Wilkin). Soybean aphid severity remained below treatment thresholds for the entire scouting season and aphids parasitized by wasp larvae were present in only nine fields. Bean leaf beetle incidence (# of beetles/50 sweeps) and feeding injury remained below treatment thresholds. The wetter than average growing season, punctuated with timely rains kept two-spotted spider mite infestations inside/on edge of fields at bay. There were no new county soybean gall midge, soybean tentiform leafminer nor Japanese beetle infestations observed in 2025. The bulk of fields with foliage feeding caterpillars were in Clay and Becker counties and south, with some fields reaching up to 50% of plants infested. Despite caterpillar infestations, only one field in Yellow Medicine County reached treatment-threshold level injury (20%+ during Rstages). While frogeye leaf spot was not observed in surveyed fields, a late-season field visit in Norman County saw the northernmost Minnesota detection to date. Cercospora leaf blight was at low incidence and one field in Wilkin County had high Phytophthora root rot incidence.

Watch Angie Peltier’s research synopsis here:

2025 On-farm IDC & SCN Test Plots & Field Day Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Angie Peltier & Heather Dufault, Cooperators: Corey and Craig Hanson

Research conducted: The experiment was planted into fine sandy loam at 168,000 seeds/A on May 28 using seed treated either with or without 0.75 fl oz/140,000 seeds Saltro (a.i. pydiflymetofen). Saltro is labeled for plant parasitic nematodes including soybean cyst nematode. Ferrilene, a liquid, EDDHA-chelated form of iron (6%) was also applied at 27 lb/A (3 gallons of product + 2 gallons of water/A) to some plots in-furrow at planting. Treatments included: untreated control (UTC), Saltro + Ferrilene, Saltro alone and Ferrilene alone. Each 700 ft strip plot was planted in a RCB design with six replicates in ten 22 inch rows and harvested using a John Deere combine. Plot yields were determined with a weigh wagon and samples collected to estimate soybean moisture and test weigh. IDC severity ratings and plant stands were assessed in plots. Findings: (IDC) symptoms differed among experimental treatments, with greater severity in plots without than in plots with in-furrow

iron applied at seeding. Interestingly, plots without iron, but planted to Saltro-treated seed had lower severity than UTC plots. Soybean yields averaged higher than 60 bu/acre; UTC and Saltro-only plot yields were lower and statistically similar than the statistically similar yields observed in plots with infurrow iron. SCN 8-inch soil cores were collected within root zone of each plot in June and October, 2025. Fall SCN egg counts showed population growth in 79% of plots over the growing season with seasonal growth between 1,325 and 1,842 eggs/100 cc, with results statistically similar among treatments. This is the second year of this trial conducted in similar soils in the same Minnesota township, although with a higher initial SCN population density in 2025 than in 2024. While trends pointed to lower in-season SCN population growth in plots planted to seed treated with Saltro in 2024, no such trend was observed in 2025. These results are in agreement with a peerreviewed 51 site-year series of trials in which seed treatments labeled for SCN management (including Saltro) were tested.

Iron deficiency chlorosis foliar ratings scale, where a score of 1 indicates green, healthy leaf tissue and a score of 5 indicates severe symptoms leading to plant death, used to estimate foliar symptoms of IDC. Source: North Dakota State University.

Watch Angie Peltier’s research synopsis here:

Developing Answers for Managing Soybean Root and Stem Diseases Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Dean Malvick Research importance: Soybean root and stem diseases are common across Minnesota where they result in plant stand and yield losses. This project was directed at Rhizoctonia root and stem rot and brown stem rot (BSR), two important and widespread diseases in Minnesota. The research goals were to identify and evaluate management strategies for these diseases in Minnesota and to conduct diagnostic and extension education activities that address important soybean disease problems. Research Conducted: The research focused on Rhizoctonia root rot aimed to determine efficacy of seed treatments and the potential value of soybean variety selection for managing Rhizoctonia root of soybean in field studies at Waseca, Minn. The research directed at BSR aimed to determine if seed treatment fungicides may have efficacy for managing this disease and to identify the level of resistance to BSR in soybean breeding lines from the U of MN soybean breeding program. The diagnostic work focused on confirming the identity of a new disease in Minnesota.

Findings: The studies focused on Rhizoctonia root rot showed that selected seed treatment fungicides can be effective for managing this disease, and soybean varieties differ in response to this disease, which suggests the potential to breed for resistance. The BSR research indicates that the BSR pathogen is moderately sensitive in lab tests to multiple different fungicides used as soybean seed treatments, however, the benefits of fungicides in the field are still uncertain, as the results from field studies were not conclusive. The breeding lines varied widely in their susceptibility to BSR and most were more susceptible to the B type of the pathogen than the A type. Our diagnostic work confirmed that red crown rot caused by Calonectria ilicicola was found in one field in southwestern Minnesota. This is the first time that this important soybean disease has been detected in Minnesota.

Brown stem rot symptoms in a soybean stem.

Rhizoctonia root rot caused high levels of plant death as seen with the low soybean stand density on the right side of the photo.

Soybean plant with red crown rot from Minnesota in 2025.

Watch Dean Malvick’s research synopsis here:

Herbicide Options for Waterhemp Control in Soybeans After First Failed Application of Glufosinate Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Debalin Sarangi Research importance: The objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of herbicide selection and application timing following an initial failed glufosinate application on waterhemp control and soybean yield. Research Conducted: Field research was conducted on a grower’s farm in Dodge County, Minnesota, in the summer of 2025. The field was infested with the naturally occurring glufosinate-resistant waterhemp population. The treatments were applied as mentioned in the research proposal following the failed application of glufosinate. Percent waterhemp control, percent survival of treated plants, and soybean yield data were collected. A graduate student was mentored and this project was part of his thesis work.

Figure 1: Effect of herbicide treatments on waterhemp control after first failed application of glufosinate.

Findings: Results of this research showed that first application of Liberty 280 SL (glufosinate) at 32 fl oz/A did not provide more than 60% control of waterhemp. However, after the first application, the second application of Liberty at the same rate provided 88% control of waterhemp, which was similar to Liberty 43 fl oz/A, Liberty + Enlist One (2,4-D), Liberty + Flexstar (fomesafen) treatments (Figure 1). Enlist One, Roundup (glyphosate), Flexstar, and Cobra (lactofen) alone did not provide adequate control of waterhemp. All the treatments except for Roundup and Cobra resulted in the similar soybean yield (Figure 2). Yield with the Cobra treatment was similar to the nontreated control.

Figure 2: Effect of herbicide treatments on soybean yield after first failed application of glufosinate.

Watch Debalin Sarangi’s research synopsis here:

Delving Deep: Evaluating Soil Moisture Dynamics, Evapotranspiration and Yield in Response to Cover Crop Termination Timing and Herbicide Strategies in Soybean Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Debalin Sarangi Research importance: The objective of this research is to evaluate the impact of cereal rye cover crop termination timing on weed control, soil moisture availability and soybean yield

week from planting to harvesting. Access tubes were installed at planting in the soybean rows to estimate soil moisture. Soybeans were harvested using a small plot combine and the yield was adjusted to 13% moisture.

Research Conducted: A field experiment was conducted in 2025 at the University of Minnesota’s Research and Outreach Center in Rosemount, and Southern Research and Outreach Center, Waseca, Minnesota, using a split-plot design. Cover crop termination timing was the main plot factor, while weed management input was the subplot factor. In this study the variety used was Enlist E3. Cereal rye was the cover crop used in this study, which was planted in fall (first week of October 2024) at a seed rate of 60 lb/A. Termination was done using Roundup PowerMax (32 fluid ounces/A) at different timings based on the treatments.

Findings: Results from the one-year study from Rosemount indicated that terminating cereal rye two weeks after soybean planting (T4) reduced soil moisture from 35% to 20% at planting compared to no cover crop (NCC) (Figure 1). Soil moisture was further reduced to 16 to 17% at early soybean vegetative stage in T4, compared to NCC. When compared with termination at planting (T2), soil moisture was reduced in T2 but maintained above field capacity (> 22%). The optimum quantity of rye biomass in T2 treatment might have removed the excess soil moisture making the planting easier in wet springs. Moreover, the biomass was sufficient to reduce soil evaporation, thereby maintaining adequate soil moisture during the early vegetative stages. Management inputs did not exhibit an impact on soil moisture throughout the season. This could be attributed to the minimum weed pressure in the study location. The trend was similar in soybean yield in Rosemount (Figure 2). T2 treatment yielded higher (4,431 kg/ha) among all other termination timings. T1 and T3 was comparable with T2 (4,337 and 4,239 kg/ha). However, NCC and T4 treatments resulted in lower yields (4,052 and 4,062 kg/ha respectively). Similar to soil moisture, soybean yield was not impacted by management inputs at Rosemount in 2024.

Termination timing included no cover crop (NCC), cover crop terminated 1 week before soybean planting (T1), terminated at planting (T2), terminated one week after planting (T3) and terminated 2 weeks after planting (T4). The sub factor included a high input and a low input weed management treatment. The high input treatments received a pre-emergence herbicide (Fierce EZ) followed by post-emergence (Enlist One and Roundup PowerMax3) and hand weeding if needed. The low input treatments received only post-emergence. Each subplot measured 20 feet in width and 30 feet in length, and all treatments were replicated four times. A PR2 probe was used to estimate soil moisture from various depths every

Watch Debalin Sarangi’s research synopsis here:

Figure 1: Soil moisture (cm/100 cm) impacted by termination timing and management inputs throughout the season from Rosemount, 2024: no cover crop (A), termination at planting (B) and termination two weeks after planting (C).

Figure 2. Soybean yield as impacted by termination timing in Rosemount, 2024.

Assessing the Efficacy of Seed Treatment Nematicides for Management of SCN, SDS in the Growth Room and Greenhouse Conditions Organization awarded: University of Minnesota, Southern Research and Outreach Center, Waseca, MN. Principal Investigator: Fariba Heydari Research importance: Soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycines) and sudden death syndrome (SDS; caused by Fusarium virguliforme) are among the most important yield-limiting diseases affecting soybean production in North America. When both pathogens occur together, SDS severity may increase because of synergistic interactions between the pathogens. Seed-treatment nematicides, particularly those with fungicidal activity, may provide integrated early-season protection against both SCN and SDS. This project evaluated the efficacy of the seed treatments TYMIRIUM® (active ingredient: cyclobutrifluram) and ILEVO (active ingredient: fluopyram) for managing SCN and SDS and improving soybean health under greenhouse and growthroom conditions. Research conducted: Three experiments were conducted. In Experiment 1, the SDS dose response to Fusarium virguliforme was evaluated using sorghumseed fungal culture. Ratios of fungal culture to soil-sand mixture (sorghum seed weight: soil weight) of 1:10, 1:20, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, and 1:60 were tested in soils with and without SCN. All fungal inoculum levels induced root rot, with severity increasing at higher inoculum concentrations. The presence of SCN further increased root-rot severity. Based on the results, the 1:30 inoculation ratio was selected for subsequent experiments because it provided sufficient disease pressure and symptom expression without excessive pathogenicity or phytotoxicity. Findings: Experiments 2 and 3 evaluated TYMIRIUM and ILEVO under controlled conditions using cone-tainers (4 cm × 13.5 cm) in

a growth room in Waseca, Minnesota, and 17-cm-diameter clay pots in a greenhouse in St. Paul, Minnesota, respectively. The growth-room experiment assessed seed treatment effects on the first SCN generation, whereas the greenhouse experiment evaluated effects across two SCN generations. Both experiments followed a factorial design with three factors: seed treatment, SCN, and SDS. Seed treatments included three rates of TYMIRIUM®, one standard rate of ILEVO, and an untreated control. Pathogen treatments included SCN alone, SDS alone, SCN+SDS, and a non-inoculated control. Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized block design. Fusarium virguliforme caused severe SDS symptoms and was the primary factor reducing plant height, biomass and chlorophyll content. Across both experiments, all seed treatments effectively suppressed SDS root rot and foliar symptoms while significantly improving plant growth. In the growth-room experiment, ILEVO provided stronger suppression of first-generation SCN population densities than TYMIRIUM. In the greenhouse experiment, the two nematicides performed similarly in reducing second-generation SCN populations, although repeated greenhouse trials produced inconsistent results. Although SCN alone had less impact on plant growth than SDS, the seed treatments significantly reduced SCN population densities and improved plant growth. Overall, the nematicide seed treatments provided substantial protection against both pathogens individually and in combination. These findings support their value as important components of integrated management strategies for SCN, SDS and combined pathogen stress.

Watch Fariba Heydari’s research synopsis here:

Figure 5. SCN egg population density in soybean plants under SCN-only and SCN+SDS conditions across seed treatments in the growth room cone experiment. Means sharing the same letter are not significantly different (Tukey, P < 0.05).

Figure 6. Score the root rot disease severity SDS of soybean plants under different seed treatments in the growth room cone experiment.

Figure 8. Score the root rot disease severity SDS, with and without SCN of soybean plants under different seed treatments in the growth room cone experiment.

Nutrient Management for Profitable Soybean Production Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Daniel Kaiser Research importance: Soybean producers have many options of when and what to apply for crop nutrients to maximize soybean grain yield. Many studies focused on application of inputs directly ahead of the soybean crop ignore long-term effects that may occur from a single or repeated application of inputs. Research conducted: Studies were established in Minnesota focused on long-term effects of lime and sulfur application in rotations including soybeans. Trial 1 includes nine locations where three sources of lime were applied at multiple rates to look at long-term benefits of adjusting soil pH in crop rotations. Trial 2 compared multiple sources of sulfur banded or broadcast with or without a low rate of pelletized lime ahead of the corn crop on corn and soybean profitability over six growing seasons. Findings show no economic benefit to lime application through the third cropping year at any of the locations in Trial 1 even though there has been a clear increase in soil pH (most sites started with a soil pH around 5.5 and now high lime rates exceed a pH of 6.0). Trial 1 is ongoing and work will be completed at each location after five cropping years.

Findings: Two of the four locations in trial 2 showed a 6% increase in corn grain yield and 3% increase in soybean yield starting in the third year of the trial regardless of the source or placement of sulfur (no response in years 1 and 2). The data collected shows that there is a carryover of sulfate-sulfur from one year to the next as indicated by increases in soybean tissue S concentration and an increase in sulfur containing proteins in the soybean grain, as well as small increases in grain protein concentration. The lack of response during the initial years of the study could be due to carryover of sulfur previously applied before the trials were established. This data does indicate that soybeans will respond to sulfur and sulfur applications are highly profitable in some circumstances more than previously expected based on research where sulfur is applied directly ahead of the soybean crop. In fact, soybean growers do not need to be concerned about direct application of sulfur ahead of the soybean crop if enough sulfur is applied ahead of the preceding corn crop.

Watch Daniel Kaiser’s research synopsis here:

2025 Adjuvant Tank Mix Impact on 2,4-D, Lactofen, and Glufosinate on Waterhemp and Giant Ragweed in Soybean Organization awarded: Next Gen Ag LLC Principal Investigator: Jenna Whitmore and Andrew Lueck Research importance: Objectives were to evaluate adjuvant recommendations or absence thereof for active ingredients, 2,4-D, Lactofen and Glufosinate and to evaluate the potential impact of an oil-based herbicide tank mix on weed control. Research conducted: Waterhemp studies were conducted on a moderate infestation of waterhemp, and giant ragweed studies were conducted on a severe infestation of giant ragweed in 2025 near Renville, Minnesota. Soil was a fine-textured webster-clay loam soil with 4.6% organic matter and a 6.6 soil pH. Spring tillage was a field cultivator at 3” depth. Beck’s 1860E soybean was seeded 1.25 inches deep on 30-inch row spacings at 140,000 seeds per acre in the waterhemp area May 3 and emerged May 12, while the giant ragweed study soybeans were planted May 8 and emerged May 15. Postemergence herbicide treatments for all studies were applied to soybeans on June 4. Waterhemp control for all active ingredients was evaluated June 1 and June 17. Giant Ragweed control for all active ingredients was evaluated June 11, June 17 and June 24. Evaluations were a visual estimate of percent fresh weight reduction in center two treated rows compared to adjacent untreated strips. Experiment design was a randomized complete block with four replications.

Findings: In general, both waterhemp and giant ragweed pressure were sufficient and uniform across all studies. The findings for 2,4-D (Enlist One) showed that adding an oil-based herbicide may increase waterhemp and giant ragweed control. However, there is an increased crop injury risk when adding both an oil-based herbicide and an oil-based adjuvant together in a tank mix. For Lactofen (Cobra), Cobra applied alone provided similar waterhemp control to those that included an oil-based adjuvant while also providing less injury. The findings for Glufosinate (Liberty ULTRA) in both waterhemp and giant ragweed control were very similar. Adding an oil-based herbicide, with or without a secondary oil-based adjuvant, appeared to improve Liberty ULTRA control for both waterhemp and giant ragweed. More research is to be conducted during the 2026 growing season. Label recommendations should always be considered and followed. This publication and more MSRPC-funded research conducted by Next Gen Ag LLC can be found online at www. nxtgenag.com under the “Latest News” tab and “Public Grant Research Studies” page.

Watch Next Gen Ag’s research synopsis here:

Enlist One adjuvant tank mix efficacy in Waterhemp and Giant Ragweed. Waterhemp Tank Mix Components

% Control

Giant Ragweed % Injury

% Control

% Injury

7 DAA

14 DAA

7 DAA

14 DAA

21 DAA

7 DAA

None

82.5

81.25

AMS 8.5 lb/ 100 gal (1.7/A)

87.5

82.5

NIS (0.25%v/v)

81.25

COC (16 fl oz)

82.5

83.75

MSO (16 fl oz)

82.5

HSMOC (16 fl oz)

87.5

82.5

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz)

87.5

86.25

MSO (16 fl oz)

87.5

86.25

2.5

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) + HSMOC (16 fl oz)

88.75

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) + HSMOC (16 fl oz) + AMS 8.5 lb/100 gal (1.7/A)

8.75

LSD (0.1)

3.88

0.95

3.94

4.43

1.10

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) +

Liberty ULTRA adjuvant tank mix efficacy in Waterhemp and Giant Ragweed. Waterhemp Tank Mix Components

% Control

Giant Ragweed % Injury

% Control

% Injury

7 DAA

14 DAA

21 DAA

7 DAA

14 DAA

21 DAA

7 DAA

None

85.75

62.5

77.5

AMS 8.5 lb/ 100 gal (1.7/A)

88.75

NIS (16 fl oz)

81.25

88.75

62.5

87.5

COC (16 fl oz)

88.75

72.5

77.5

MSO (16 fl oz)

88.75

67.5

86.25

HSMOC (16 fl oz)

87.5

86.25

72.5

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) +

87.5

86.25

AMS 1.7 lb/A

92.5

83.75

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) +

87.5

86.25

2.5

MSO (16 fl oz) + AMS 1.7 lb/A

91.25

Dual Magnum (16 fl oz) +

8.75

HSMOC (16 fl oz) + AMS 1.7 lb/A

93.75

86.25

82.5

AMS 3 lb/A

82.5

88.75

72.5

LSD (0.1)

4.56

3.06

5.72

2.17

LSD (0.01)

7.41

4.97

9.31

0 0

Developing Resistance Management Guidelines and Evaluating Quantitative Resistance to Phytophthora Sojae in Minnesota Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Megan McCaghey Research importance: At the start of the last five growing seasons, parts of Minnesota have experienced above-average soil moisture, potentially promoting the development of Phytophthora sojae, a soil-borne pathogen that attacks soybean seedlings. Planting resistant soybean varieties is a key management strategy. However, resistance genes (Rps) must align with the P. sojae pathotypes (variants) in the field to be effective. Another potentially effective strategy is to deploy soybeans with quantitative (partial) resistance. Quantitative resistance can offer small to moderate, additive protection against a broad range of P. sojae pathotypes. In this study, our Objective 1 was to predict P. sojae pathotypes using a rapid, PCR-based molecular method and test which Rps soybeans may be resistant to these pathotypes. Results will help recommend soybean varieties with potentially effective Rps genes that are more aligned to local pathotypes, enhancing disease resistance. Our Objective 2 was to screen breeding lines generated by Dr. Aaron Lorenz for quantitative resistance to P. sojae. Results from this objective may lead to the identification of potential genes that could confer quantitative resistance, which could lead to its incorporation into soybeans for improved future resistance. Research conducted: For Objective 1, we conducted a pathotype survey using soil collected during the 2023-2025 growing seasons (Fig. 2). Twentyfive P. sojae-confirmed isolates were pathotyped using a molecular method, then tested on Rps soybeans used by Minnesota farmers. For Objective 2, disease progression was analyzed in 21 breeding lines selected from the Lorenz Lab collection (each with a different genetic background) that was inoculated with an isolate with a complex pathotype (pathotype 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1k) or a simple pathotype (pathotype 1c).

Findings: In Objective 1, we utilized a molecular identification method developed by Dussault-Benoit et al. (2020) to predict the pathotypes of current P. sojae isolates in Minnesota.. Our molecular predictions suggest that the P. sojae pathotypes in Minnesota are complex, with 76% of the 25 isolates having the potential to defeat at least 5 Rps resistance genes in soybean (Table 1). Importantly, our molecular predictions reveal that Rps3a and Rps6 resistance genes may effectively provide immunity to the current isolates (Table 1, E). We have therefore tested these predictions on soybean varieties that carry Rps3a, Rps6, as well as Rps1c and Rps1k (resistance genes that are no longer effective, but still widely deployed) (McCoy et al. 2023). Our initial results indeed show that Rps3a and Rps6 soybeans are immune and Rps1c and Rps1k soybeans are not immune to the current isolates tested (Table 1, F-I), potentially suggesting that Rps3a and Rps6- containing varieties might be good candidates to deploy more widely in the state. In Objective 2, of the 21 lines, 3 exhibited complete resistance (highlighted dark green, Fig. 3a) and 3 others exhibited near complete resistance (highlighted light green, Fig. 3a) when challenged with a complex or simple pathotype. It is unknown which Rps resistance genes, if any, are present and active in these lines. Because it is unlikely that they carry many of the common Rps genes, the other possible explanation is that they carry quantitative resistance genes that may be contributing to resistance. Experimental repeats are currently being performed. Our pathotype identifications, combined with quantitative resistance analysis, will guide growers toward soybean varieties that can potentially resist local P. sojae pathotypes. Outreach will include Extension materials, meetings and reports. The project aims to reduce yield loss by delivering rapid diagnostics and effective variety recommendations, while also exploring partial resistance to improve long-term management strategies.

Watch Megan McCaghey’s research synopsis here:

Table 1. Preliminary identification of 25 PCRconfirmed P. sojae isolates recovered from soil collected around MN in 2023-2025. (A-D) There are 5 unique pathotypes across 5 counties thus far. (E) Based on the predicted molecular pathotypes, soybeans carrying Rps3a or Rps6 genes could be effective against the isolate. (F-I) To test our molecular predictions, soybeans carrying Rps1c, Rps1k, Rps3a, or Rps6 resistance genes were inoculated with an isolate using a hypocotyl inoculation method. Isolates were either virulent (V) and resulted in a rotted plant or avirulent (A) and resulted in a healthy plant 7 days after inoculation. Blank cells indicate testing is in progress or has not yet been performed.

Figure 2. Soil and tissue samples collected from MN fields in 2023-2024 (pink asterisk). We collected 72 soil and 23 tissue samples. Only soil samples were successfully processed. Map of MN soybean production in 2023, showing number of bushels produced per county (Source: USDA)

Figure 3. Tolerance of 21 breeding lines to P. sojae. (a) 21 soybeans with different genetic backgrounds selected from Aaron Lorenz breeding program were inoculated with either a P. sojae isolate with pathotype 1c (vir-1), pathotype 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1k (vir-5), or agar vehicle (negative control). Shown are % diseased. (b-d) Representative images of plants 7 days post inoculation.

Multifaceted Approaches in Understanding Sclerotinia Stem Rot Disease Avoidance and Resistance Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Megan McCaghey Research importance: Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR), caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, ranks among the most damaging diseases in U.S. soybean production, responsible for losses exceeding 200 million bushels between 2015 and 2019. In Minnesota alone, losses were valued at more than $330 million. The pathogen has a broad host range and produces long-lived sclerotia, making managing the disease particularly challenging. Fungicides can provide control, but their effectiveness is limited by timing, cost and environmental conditions. While partial genetic resistance has been identified, the role of soybean shoot architecture, upright versus bushy growth habits, in shaping the microclimate and influencing SSR development remains poorly understood. Shoot architecture is a key determinant of the canopy microclimate, which in turn is critical for pathogen establishment and disease progression. Thus, studying architectural effects on SSR could provide new opportunities in developing effective management and breeding strategies. Research conducted: To investigate the role of architecture in SSR development, we are comparing the commercial soybean varieties broadly categorized as “upright” or “bushy.” Field trials were established in randomized complete block designs with replicated plots. Architectural traits such as canopy coverage, branch angle, petiole slope and leaf shape were quantified using imaging and high throughput drone-based methods. Sclerotia were introduced into the field, and an irrigation system was employed to promote disease. SSR severity was scored on a standardized 0–3 scale, while sclerotia depots were deployed to monitor germination and apothecia production under different canopy types. Additional trials were also employed to compare fungicide efficacy across

architectures. Finally, a legacy panel of soybean lines (1940s–2000s) was screened to assess whether changes in shoot architecture associated with soybean breeding have also been accompanied by changes in SSR resistance. Findings: Preliminary results indicate that soybean architecture strongly influences SSR severity. Bushy canopies supported higher disease severity indices and reduced UVB light penetration relative to upright canopies, even when genetic resistance was not a differentiating factor. Differences in canopy closure appear to alter microclimatic conditions favorable for apothecia formation and subsequent infection. Data from the legacy panel have been collected and are currently being analyzed to determine whether selection for yield over breeding eras has also influenced SSR resistance. This work provides evidence that soybean architecture is a critical, understudied factor in SSR disease development. By identifying how canopy structure influences microclimate and pathogen dynamics, the project advances the possibility of selecting or breeding for architectures that promote “disease escape.” Results will also inform integrated management by examining the relative value of fungicide applications in different canopy types. For growers, this research has both immediate and long-term benefits: identifying varieties that are more tolerant to SSR in the field and guiding breeding programs toward traits that combine yield potential with resilience to disease. Beyond practical outcomes, this project, led by researcher Dr. Suma Sreekanta and MSc. Student Alisha Mildenberger, also contributes to student training, collaborative research networks and foundational knowledge to support future genetic studies of SSR resistance

Watch Megan McCaghey’s research synopsis here:

Genetics of Soybean Cyst Nematode Virulence and Morphological Traits, and Development of Molecular Tools for HG Type Test Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Senyu Chen Research importance: Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the most damaging soybean pathogen in North America. Farmers primarily manage SCN by planting resistant soybean varieties. However, over time the nematode has evolved the ability to overcome the resistance sources, threatening the long-term effectiveness of this important management strategy. Understanding how SCN adapts to resistant soybeans is critical for protecting soybean production. Research conducted: In this study, we conducted a whole-genome re-sequencing project. A total of 178 inbred SCN lines that were developed from populations originally collected from soybean fields across Minnesota were analyzed. Each line was tested on six different soybean resistance sources to determine its ability to reproduce and overcome plant defenses. The results revealed tremendous diversity in virulence, or the nematode’s ability to infect resistant soybeans. Some lines could reproduce on multiple resistance sources, while others could not overcome any of them. The genetic analysis identified nearly 785,000 DNA variants across the nematode genomes. By combining these genetic data with virulence measurements, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed to identify regions of the SCN genome linked to virulence. Sixteen genomic regions were found to be associated with the ability to overcome different soybean resistance sources. Interestingly, most of these regions were unique to specific resistance types, suggesting that SCN uses different genetic strategies to defeat

different forms of soybean resistance. Several candidate genes located near these regions encode proteins known as effectors, which are secreted by nematodes during infection to manipulate plant cells and suppress plant defenses. The study also investigated the genetic basis of several SCN morphological traits, including cyst, adult male and juvenile body dimensions. Significant genomic associations were detected only for male body length. Candidate genes near these loci included genes with functions related to muscle structure and energy storage, suggesting possible roles in nematode growth and development. Findings: The study also found surprisingly little genetic separation among SCN populations collected from different parts of Minnesota. Despite differences in geography and history of soybean production, most SCN lines were genetically similar, suggesting widespread mixing of genetic traits and limited local adaptation. These findings improve our understanding of how SCN evolves and adapts to resistant soybean varieties. The results also provide a foundation for developing rapid DNA-based diagnostic tests. Molecular assays targeting virulenceassociated genetic markers are being developed and validated to estimate virulence allele frequencies directly from field populations, potentially enabling faster, more cost-effective virulence testing and supporting more effective SCN management.

Watch Senyu Chen’s research synopsis here:

SCN in a field can be noticed by yellowing leaves.

More Returns, Less Risk: Selecting Soybean Cultivars for Drought-Prone Fields Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigators: Seth Naeve and Anibal Cerrudo Research importance: Drought and erratic water availability represent massive challenges for Minnesota soybean growers, with coarse soils and shallow soils frequently triggering severe yield losses and disappointing yields in drought-prone pockets consistently drag down whole-farm profitability. This project investigates whether elite soybean varieties possess intrinsic physiological differences that allow them to handle water stress better than their counterparts. Research conducted: Researchers evaluated eight elite commercial soybean varieties (Maturity Group 1.5–1.7) chosen from major seed brands to assess performance differences between highyielding “racehorse” lines and stress-tolerant “plow horse” lines. These varieties were tested across eight unique environmental conditions to simulate distinct stress levels, including managed drip irrigation vs. drought setups in St. Paul, precision early- vs. late-season irrigation at Becker, and contrasting yield potentials through early vs. late planting dates at Wells.

Figure 1 - Yield vs Environmental Index for Each Variety at Each Location

Findings: • The Stability Paradox: Varieties like P16Z25E established excellent yield stability and high overall productivity across all environments. Conversely, AG16XF5 matched it in average yield but displayed high sensitivity, showing steep yield drops when conditions deteriorated. •

Low Yields, High Risk: The most stable varieties (XO1545E and 16EC32E) unfortunately produced the lowest average yields across the board.

•

Widening Gaps: Crucially, the yield gap between different varieties did not shrink under tough conditions. In low-yielding, drought-stressed environments, performance differences between varieties spanned 10% to 20%, proving that variety selection is actually more critical in poor soils than in premium ones.

Drone view of drainage site.

Watch Seth Naeve’s research synopsis here:

Carbon Credits in Minnesota: Evaluating the Dual Impact of Agricultural Management Practices on Carbon Sequestration and Crop Yield Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigators: Seth Naeve, Fabian Fernadez and Anna Cates Research importance: Minnesota soybean producers face evolving economic landscapes driven by climate variability, policy and regulatory shifts, and emerging biofuel carbon markets. This research evaluates how field-level management — specifically tiling, alternative tillage and post-harvest residue practices — interact to impact soil health, carbon sequestration baselines and ultimate crop yields. In addition, this work focus on grower education regarding risks and benefits of carbon markets, CI scores and environmental programs. Research conducted: Using the long-term University of Minnesota and MSR&PC Drainage and Tillage research site near Wells, Minn., scientists evaluated three primary operational factors over a fouryear window (2021–2024): subsurface drainage (drained vs. undrained), three tillage systems (conventional, strip-till and

Two-Way Interactions: Tillage x Residue Removal: This interaction yielded clear, highly practical economic implications. Residue removal (cornstalk baling) provided zero yield advantage in fields managed under conventional tillage or strip-till. However, within the continuous no-till system, residue removal increased subsequent soybean yields by 6.5 bu/ac.

no-till), and autumn corn residue management (removing 50–60% of aboveground stover via mechanical baling vs. leaving it intact). Findings: • Subsurface Drainage: Tiled plots generated a consistent multi-year yield premium of 4.0 bu/ac (6%) for soybeans and a 15 bu/ac boost for corn. •

Tillage Comparison: Strip-till outperformed conventional tillage over multiple years, yielding a significant 72.2 bu/ac baseline. Regular no-till sustained a heavy 6.7 bu/ac penalty.

•

The No-Till Tradeoff: Physically removing cornstalks in the fall provided no benefit to tilled fields, but increased no-till soybean yields by 6.5 bu/ac, effectively erasing the typical no-till yield penalty.

Two-Way Interactions: Drainage x Tillage: While both factors exerted powerful main effects, their statistical interaction was minor and carries limited practical weight for producers. Strip-till under undrained conditions outperformed conventional tillage by a slightly larger margin than it did under drained conditions. Additionally, the standard no-till yield penalty was slightly increased in drained soils compared to undrained environments, although the overarching trend for each tillage system remained relatively stable, regardless of drainage status.

Watch Seth Naeve’s research synopsis here:

Advancing Integrated Pest Management for Soybean Gall Midge and Soybean Aphid Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigators: Dr. Robert Koch Research conducted: We recently wrapped up studies aimed at finding better management strategies for two major soybean pests: the soybean gall midge and soybean aphid. To combat the soybean gall midge, we evaluated 12 different soybean varieties in our laboratory to identify natural resistance (i.e., host-plant resistance). In “no-choice” tests where we forced the insects onto a single variety. These soybean lines represent a diversity of soybean genetics that were identified as being potentially resistant or susceptible to gall midge in a larger project funded by the North Central Soybean Research Program (NCSRP). Soybean line PI 567440 showed strong potential, ending up with significantly fewer larvae than the susceptible checks. Meanwhile, line PI 3399119 managed to stunt larval maturity and line FC031630 reduced the number of emerging adults. In “choice” tests where we gave the midges the freedom to pick where to lay their eggs, they actively avoided several varieties, laying significantly fewer eggs on PI 567440, PI 438112B, PI 384474, PI 081763, PI 437116 and PI 398975 compared to one or two of the susceptible checks. Our team also explored new scouting and cultural control methods for soybean gall midge. We tested an

“Eavesdropper” audio tool designed to listen to plant vibrations for early pest detection. While we found it was unable to distinguish between healthy plants and those infested with gall midge, it successfully identified soybean aphid infestations, showing future promise as an aphid scouting tool. Additionally, when we studied the pest’s lifecycle, we found that the depth at which gall midge larvae are buried in the soil drastically impacts their survival, highlighting tillage as a potential tool to disrupt their development. Finally, we ran an insecticide efficacy trial to monitor how various commercial insecticides handled an initial pressure of 60 aphids per plant, which delivered a critical warning regarding Warrior II. This pyrethroid chemical completely backfired on us; by weeks two and three, the plots we treated with Warrior II actually had significantly more aphids than our untreated control plots. This provides further evidence of continued pyrethroid resistance in our aphid populations and suggests the insecticide likely flared the pest population by wiping out beneficial, predatory insects instead of the aphids. In contrast, all the other commercial insecticides we tested worked well, successfully keeping aphid numbers low across the entire 21-day trial.

Watch Robert Koch’s research synopsis here:

Graph shows aphid control using various insecticides and the effect on the number of aphids per plant.

Soybean gall midge larvae.

Soybean aphids on soybean plant.

New Biotechnology to Improve and Understand Soybean Traits Organization awarded: University of Minnesota Principal Investigator: Robert Stupar Research importance: Modern biotechnologies, such as genetic transformation and gene editing, can be used to advance understanding of the genes that control critical traits in soybean, and identify modifications of these genes for trait improvement. This project provides the base funding to support soybean biotechnology at the University of Minnesota. This facility is used to study the genes involved in determining major traits in soybean, including seed composition, architecture, iron deficiency chlorosis, disease resistance and pest resistance. Research conducted: The transformation facility is mainly used to deliver CRISPR gene editing reagents into the plant. These CRISPR reagents generate targeted DNA sequence edits at specific genes of interest. These gene-edited plants are identified and then increased for seed for downstream analyses. The downstream analyses depend on the trait of interest. For example, a plant edited for a seed composition trait may be evaluated for changes in its seed biochemistry and/ or allergenicity. We maintain an APHIS-regulated field area for field testing of transformed and edited plants.

Robert Stupar examining young gene-edited plants during the tissue culture stage.

Findings: The transformation and gene editing process is continually ongoing. In the past year, we have developed gene edits for several genes of interest, including those hypothesized to be involved in seed composition, plant architecture and iron deficiency chlorosis. We have done preliminary field testing for the more advanced events and initiated biochemical studies for the seed composition lines. Genetic transformation and gene editing offer the potential for the development of novel traits for soybean farmers. Furthermore, these studies using these technologies provide insight into the most important genes that underlie these traits and can thus better inform the selection of these genes using conventional breeding. The goal is to identify the most valuable genes/traits and the most efficient and effective way to bring them into the breeding germplasm, thus improving the value and reliability of the soybean varieties available to Minnesota soybean growers.

Robert Stupar examining a soybean plant that has been gene-edited to increase main stem internode length.

Watch Robert Stupar’s research synopsis here:

The Impact of Row Spacing on Season Long Metrics of Soybean Crop Health: A “Hands-on” Learning Plot Organization awarded: Southwest Minnesota State University Principal Investigator: Adam Alford Research importance: The primary purpose of this grant was to provide experimental learning opportunities to students, both those in class and those conducting field work. While this grant focused on educating students on the utility, advantages and disadvantages of altering row spacing in soybeans production, all aspects of the soybean production cycle were fair game when it came to providing hands-on learning opportunities to students. Research conducted: Three row spacings (30”, 22”, and 7.5”) were planted at a minimum of half an acre in size. NDVI values, canopy photos and pest presence were assessed weekly to determine the impact that row spacing may have on these metrics. Overall, this project was a success, and SMSU ag programs are gracious for MSR&PC’s continuing checkoff support. The primary manner in which this project will positively impact Minnesota soybean farmers is via education and demonstration. The future crop scouts, consultants, product sales service and researchers that Minnesota soybean farmers will rely on are in college right now. A broad and robust agricultural education during their college years will allow students to excel and help Minnesota soy growers to be agricultural leaders they always have been.

In terms of canopy closure, our 7.5 inch row treatment canopied approximately 21 days before our 22 inch and 30inch row treatment as expected. Similarly, NDVI values were highest in our 7.5 inch row treatment until 7/14/25 when all treatments plateaued at 0.9 NDVI. Findings: For yield, the 22-inch treatment yielded 81.33 bu/ac, the 30-inch treatment yielded 62.67 bu/ac, and a combine repair mishap destroyed the 7.5-inch row yield data. As such, 100 seed weights were estimated to provide additional resolution since a third of the yield data was lost. The 7.5-inch row seeds had the highest weight at 19.1 grams, followed by the 30-inch rows at 18.83 grams, and finally the 22-inch rows at 17.65 grams. No major differences in pest presence were noted other than a reduction of weeds in both the 7.5 inch and 22-inch row treatment. The results of these plots were communicated in person, at the plot to 141 individuals, and 66 of which are students at SMSU in the 2025-2026 academic year so far. The plots have been used for four classes thus far, including AGRO 132 Crop Production, AGRO 250 Sustainable Gardening, AGRO 341 Pest Management and AGRO 390 Precision Agriculture.

Watch Adam Alford’s research synopsis here: Time series of canopy closure in our three row spacings. The 7.5 inch rows closed ~21 days prior to our other two treatments and had less weed pressure

Why Are My Soybeans Turning Yellow? What Two Minnesota Fields Taught Us About Iron Deficiency Chlorosis Organization awarded: Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council Principal Investigator: Sergio Cabello Leiva, Ph.D. Director of Research Research importance: Yellow soybeans (chlorotic soybeans) are common across central, northwestern and southwestern Minnesota. Iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) occurs when roots cannot obtain or use enough iron to produce chlorophyll. The newest leaves turn yellow between the veins, while the veins remain green. Minnesota soils usually contain enough iron, but high pH, calcium carbonate, wet conditions and nitrate can make it unavailable for soybeans (a legume) Research conducted: In July 2025, we scouted fields with clear IDC symptoms in McLeod and Norman counties. In each field, we compared an IDC-affected area with a nearby green, asymptomatic area and collected soil, plant tissue, and soybean cyst nematode (SCN) samples. We avoided the most soil-saturated areas. Findings: The fields told different stories. In McLeod County, the IDC area had pH 7.9, nitrate at 15.6 ppm, and 11.4% calcium carbonate equivalent, compared with 2.5% in the healthy area. High pH,

calcium carbonate and nitrate were likely the main contributing factors for IDC. Norman County was more complex. Both areas had stressful alkaline conditions: pH 8.1 in the IDC area and 8.0 in the healthy area. However, nitrate reached 19.2 ppm in the IDC area versus 3.3 ppm in the healthy area, while soybean cyst nematode (SCN) reached 13,650 eggs per 100 cc in the IDC area versus 2,017 in the healthy area. The IDC-area SCN count exceeded the University of Minnesota’s 10,000-egg level, at which a nonhost crop is recommended because significant yield loss can occur even with resistant varieties. Severe SCN can cause foliar yellowing and stunting resembling IDC. Our sampling cannot confirm SCN as the cause. However, 13,650 eggs in an already stressful, high-pH environment represents substantial additional pressure and cannot be disregarded as a possible contributor to symptom severity. In both counties, yellow (chlorotic) plants contained more iron than healthy plants, showing why leaf-tissue iron alone can be misleading when diagnosing IDC.

Watch Sergio Cabello Leiva’s research synopsis here:

2026 POD PROJECTS A look at checkoff investments in production and agronomic research

mnsoybean.org Research drives progress. Progress drives farmer profitability. That’s why the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) wisely invests checkoff dollars in research projects that bring on-farm value to Minnesota soybean growers.

With one-third of research projects focused on future problems, the checkoff digs deep to uncover answers today for questions that’ll be asked tomorrow.

CHECKOFF-FUNDED PROJECT OVERVIEW In 2026, the Council funded 24 projects in three topic areas:

Pest management

Genetic

7 Other agronomy

COMMON PEST ISSUES Farmers grapple with pests throughout the growing season. Here are just a few of the funded projects that tackle common pest issues: Determining the best management practices for soybean cyst nematode in MN

Managing herbicide-resistant waterhemp in soybeans in MN

Enhancing management of soybean stem diseases in MN

Agriculture’s realm extends beyond pests and genetics. Checkoff-funded projects reflect a wide range of subjects, including: Two-year to single-year fertilizer applications are compared on secondround study in cornsoybean rotation Nutrient management for profitable soybean production

SOYBEAN BREEDING & GENETICS Sometimes, the best pest defense is variety selection. The checkoff invests in soybean breeding and genetic projects, such as: Improving and understanding soybean traits with new biotechnology

1/3 of projects are designed for today 1/3 are designed for the next 5 years 1/3 are designed for 5+ years

Investigating the genetics of soybean cyst nematode virulence and morphometric traits

Assessing agriculture practices’ impact on carbon sequestration and yield See back for full list of research projects

For research updates, contact Director of Research Sergio Cabello Leiva at scabelloleiva@agmgmtsolutions.com

2026 Checkoff Production Research Projects Researcher

Affiliation

Topic/Project title

Aaron Lorenz

UMN

Advancing Varietal Resistance to Soybean Cyst Nematode in Minnesota

Aaron Lorenz

UMN

Soybean Breeding and Genetics

Aaron Lorenz

UMN

The University of Minnesota Soybean Research Center

Adam Alford

SMSU

The role of proper herbicide stewardship in ensuring a healthy, high-yielding crop: a “hands-on” learning plot

Ahmed Mohamed Harb Rabia

NDSU

Laser-Guided Future: Precision Laser-Based Weed Management System to Reduce Herbicide Use in Minnesota Soybean Fields

Angie Peltier

UMN

Soybean Success in Saline Soils

Angie Peltier

UMN

2026 Western Minnesota Soybean IPM Survey

Daniel Kaiser

UMN

Nutrient Management for Profitable Soybean Production

Dean Malvick

UMN

Red Crown Rot: Distribution, Risks, And Management In Minnesota

Debalin Sarangi

UMN

Characterization of Auxinic Herbicide-Resistant Waterhemp in Minnesota

Fariba Heydari

UMN

Assessing the efficacy of seed treatment ILEVO® (fluopyram) for managing Sudden Death Syndrome and Soybean Cyst Nematode in Minnesota soybean fields

Jenna Whitmore

Next Gen Ag

2026 Resistance Management of Waterhemp and Giant Ragweed Industry Programs in a 2-Year Corn/Soybean

Jenna Whitmore

Next Gen Ag

2026 Soybean Plant Health and Value-Added Industry Product Impact on Yield

Jenna Whitmore

Next Gen Ag

2026 Soybean White Mold Control Product Impact on Soybean Yield

Jenna Whitmore

Next Gen Ag

2026 Oil-Based Herbicide Tank Mix Impact on 2,4-D, lactofen, and Glufosinate Efficacy on Waterhemp in Soybean

Megan McCaghey

UMN

Harnessing Canopy Structure and Legacy Genetics to Mitigate Sclerotinia Stem Rot in Soybean

Megan McCaghey

UMN

Evaluating the potential of soybean isoflavones to enhance resistance against phytophthora stem and root rot in Minnesota

Robert Koch

UMN

Advancing integrated pest management for soybean gall midge and soybean aphid

Robert Stupar

UMN

Advancing biotechnology to improve and understand soybean traits

Senyu Chen

UMN

Ecology of the soybean cyst nematode: Survey of HG Types and nematode suppressive soil

Seth Naeve

UMN

Carbon Credits in Minnesota: Evaluating the Dual Impact of Agricultural Management Practices on Carbon Sequestration and Crop Yield

Seth Naeve

UMN

Exploring environmental, variety, and management effects on IDC for delineating guidelines

Walid Sadok

UMN

A novel metabolite-based approach to breeding for higher soybean yields in Minnesota

Zachary W. Bateson

National Agricultural Genotyping Center

Pilot Sampling Program to Screen for Herbicide Resistance in Minnesota Weeds

For questions on specific projects, contact Sergio Cabello Leiva at scabelloleiva@agmgmtsolutions.com

Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council 1020 Innovation Lane, Mankato, MN 56001 mnsoybean.org