Update:
View uploaded report 
IDENTIFYING EFFECTIVE COVER CROPS FOR MANAGEMENT OF SOYBEAN CYST NEMATODE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
NORTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN COUNCIL
JUNE 2021
Dr. Guiping Yan, Principal Investigator, Dept. Plant Pathology, NDSU
Research Conducted
Ten cover crop species and cultivars were evaluated for their effect on hatching of soybean cyst nematode (SCN) eggs and penetration of plant roots by juveniles, along with a rotational crop corn, a susceptible soybean, and an unplanted infested soil (fallow). All the entries were planted in two sets in cone-tainers each with 100 cm3 of infested soil collected from a soybean field in ND. Crops were harvested 15 and 30 days after planting (DAP). Plants roots were stained with food coloring dye to visualize nematodes inside the roots for penetration. Soil from each cone-tainer was processed to extract and quantify SCN juveniles and eggs for hatching.
Why the research is important to ND soybean farmers
Many cover crops were evaluated for their hosting and population reduction on SCN, the major yield-limiting biotic factor of soybean. Cover crops showed the potential to be used as an alternative means to manage SCN but their effect on biology of SCN for population reduction are not well known. This research provides a better understanding of effects of cover crops on biology of SCN for identifying effective cover crops.
Final findings of the research
Faba bean had a significantly higher number of juveniles in soil and inside the roots than other cover crops and fallow 15 DAP, suggesting greater SCN hatching. Significantly more SCN juveniles penetrated the roots of faba bean 15 DAP but subsequently, those juveniles were significantly reduced 30 DAP. Red clover, alfalfa, and foxtail millet had very low juvenile penetration on roots, indicating they may starve the hatched juveniles in the absence of suitable hosts which results in ultimately the death of juveniles. The significant effect of brassica crops (daikon radish, oilseed radish, white mustard) on hatching and penetration of SCN was not observed, suggesting a role of their bio-fumigation property on SCN population reduction.
Benefits/Recommendations to North Dakota soybean farmers and industry
All cover crops except turnip reduced the SCN population in infested soil. These crops can be used as cover crops or rotational crops in infested fields to manage SCN. Faba bean greatly enhanced the hatching of SCN eggs and penetration of roots by juveniles without supporting reproduction, suggesting a great potential to serve as a trap crop for SCN management. The research findings will be useful for farmers to select effective cover crops for reducing SCN damage to improve soybean production in infested fields in ND.