By Scout Nelson
Similar to last year, cool and wet conditions during the growing season led to prolonged iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC) in soybean fields across North Dakota. Iron deficiency chlorosis is a common problem in some soils, and its effects can reduce soybean yield if not managed properly.
According to North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension specialists, the first step to address iron deficiency chlorosis is selecting soybean varieties that are more tolerant to the condition. Ana Carcedo, NDSU Extension agronomist, emphasizes that choosing the right variety is the most important action farmers can take.
Soybean breeder Carrie Miranda adds, “Soybean varieties exhibit genetic differences in their tolerance to iron deficiency chlorosis symptoms. Producers can use the NDSU data to choose an appropriate IDC-tolerant soybean variety for fields known to have iron deficiency chlorosis issues in the 2026 season. Selecting a soybean variety with IDC tolerance is an important management decision that can help producers minimize the negative impact of chlorosis on yield.”
During the summer of 2025, NDSU’s soybean breeding program tested 131 soybean varieties, including Enlist, GT27, Roundup Ready, Xtend, and conventional types. These trials were designed to measure how well each variety performed under iron deficiency chlorosis pressure.
Iron deficiency chlorosis symptoms often appear as yellow leaves with green veins, browning edges, and stunted growth. These issues typically show up early in the season and can significantly lower yields.
To measure tolerance, NDSU researchers used fields with a known history of iron deficiency chlorosis and rated plants on a scale of 1 to 5. A rating of 1 showed no iron deficiency chlorosis symptoms, while a 5 showed severe chlorosis. Ratings were recorded at three different soybean growth stages to ensure accurate results.
Photo Credit: istock-sandramatic
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Soybeans