Integrated Pest Management of Sclerotinia Stem Rot in Soybean: Current Strategies and Future Prospects.

ABSTRACT: Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary, the causal agent of Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR) or white mold, is a soil-borne hemibiotrophic fungus that causes substantial soybean yield losses worldwide. This pathogen infects over 400 plant species and persists in soil for extended periods through melanized sclerotia, which can survive under extreme environmental conditions. The wide host range, environmental adaptability, and longevity of sclerotia make SSR a persistent challenge in soybean production. No single management tactic provides reliable control, which underscores the importance of integrated pest management (IPM). Cultural practices such as crop rotation with non-hosts, optimized row spacing, adjusted seeding rates, and targeted irrigation are fundamental to reducing inoculum a

SUBMITTER: Khambhati VH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12734104 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature