In-Season Agronomy

University of Illinois Crop Science Variety Trials – Protein, Oil and SCN Resistance

In addition to using the SCIO CNST NIR technology on the combine to determine the protein and oil content of each tested variety, soil samples will be collected at harvest to assess population levels of soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Data will be shared with Illinois farmers through several methods, including the UI Variety Trial website.

Project Information

  • How can we streamline data collection from the state’s variety trials so data can be compiled and made available to farmers more quickly?
  • How do different soybean varieties fare under different SCN pressures at different testing sites?
  • How do different varieties with the same genetic resistance respond to SCN pressure? What causes the differences in responses?
  • How do varieties respond to differences between SCN populations?

  • Region 1: Freeport and DeKalb
  • Region 2: Monmouth and Goodfield
  • Region 3: Perry and Urbana
  • Region 4: St. Peter and Belleville

  • Typically 250 varieties representing the various trait stacks from more than 20 seed companies are tested across Illinois each year. Using the SCIO CNST NIR technology on the combine will allow researchers to automatically determine the protein and oil content of each tested variety.
  • While most, if not all, commercial varieties have resistance to SCN, that resistance may be derived from different genetic backgrounds. Even varieties with the same genetic resistance may possess other differences that affect their response to SCN. Similarly, differences between SCN populations across different fields may also lead to different varietal responses.

  • Farmers will be able to review variety trial results that include protein and oil content assessments more quickly so they can choose their soybean varieties earlier.
  • Farmers, as well as seed companies, will be equipped with data about how different varieties respond to SCN. They can use this to better inform their SCN management strategies and variety selection.

  • Data from the 2023 crop season is available on the UI Variety Trial website to help farmers select high-yielding varieties best suited for their farm.

  • Nathan Schroeder, Associate Professor, UIUC

About the Lead Researcher

Darin Joos
Research Agronomist
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
217-778-7047
joos@illinois.edu

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