The Michigan Soybean Committee proudly unveils a groundbreaking addition to its educational arsenal: the new tri-fold soybean leaf, stalk, and root display case. This innovative exhibit offers a captivating exploration into the intricate world of soybean health, showcasing the myriad challenges faced by growers and the resilience of the crop.

Michigan Soybean Committee’s mission is to effectively administer checkoff resources, aiming to amplify returns on investment for soybean farmers in Michigan, all the while promoting sustainable soybean cultivation practices. Their vision is to aspire to lead the way in innovation, shaping a sustainable future for Michigan’s soybean farmers.

Trifoliates: A Kaleidoscope Of Deficiences and Diseases

Step into our display and be greeted by 16 trifoliates, each telling a unique story of struggle and survival. From the haunting presence of frog leaf spot disease to the sudden onset of sudden death syndrome, these leaves bear the scars of Michigan’s soybean battles. Explore the intricacies of septoria brown spot disease, the delicate balance disrupted by downy mildew, and the relentless onslaught of cercospora leaf blight. But it doesn’t stop there – our trifoliates also reveal the silent hunger of manganese deficiency, the withering effects of potassium deficiency, and the stark signs of zinc, magnesium, nitrogen, and iron deficiencies. Witness the impact of soybean defoliators like the Japanese Beetle, Bean Leaf Beetle, and grasshoppers, as well as the aftermath of off-target drift injury from Growth Regulator.

Stalks: Pillars Of Strength, Marked By Disease

Standing tall amidst the trifoliates are three soybean stems, each marked by the insidious touch of disease. Brown stem rot, white mold, and phytophthora sojae serve as stark reminders of the threats lurking in the soil and air, threatening to undermine the very foundation of Michigan’s soybean industry. Yet, amidst the devastation, these stalks stand as testaments to the perseverance of growers in the face of adversity.

Root Structures: The Hidden World Below

Beneath the soil lies a hidden world of root structures, each bearing the weight of its own afflictions. Explore the devastating effects of Pythium and phytophthora damping off, the chilling aftermath of cold/frost injury, and the haunting halo effect. These roots, though unseen, play a crucial role in the health and vitality of Michigan’s soybean crops.

In unveiling this tri-fold display, the Michigan Soybean Committee invites viewers to embark on a journey through the triumphs and tribulations of soybean cultivation. From the lush greenery of healthy trifoliates to the gnarled roots marked by disease, the exhibit serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and resilience of Michigan’s soybean growers. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of agriculture, let us draw inspiration from the stories contained within this display, working together to ensure a vibrant future for Michigan’s soybean industry.

Are you eager to dive deeper into the world of soybean diseases and diagnostics? Look no further than the Soybean Disease Diagnostic Series provided by North Dakota State University’s Extension Service. This invaluable resource offers a comprehensive guide to identifying and managing soybean diseases, equipping growers with the knowledge they need to protect their crops and maximize yields.

To access the Soybean Disease Diagnostic Series, simply visit this link. Happy reading and happy farming!