Soybean Pests and Diseases: Identification and Control
Common soybean problems: aphids, stink bugs, bean leaf beetles, spider mites, white mold, sudden death syndrome, frogeye leaf spot, rust and root rots.
Muhammet Elma
4 November 2026
1 min read
Most soybean problems are managed by crop rotation, resistant varieties and scouting. In gardens, rabbits, deer, Japanese beetles and stink bugs are the usual troublemakers.
Advertisement
Pests
- Soybean aphid: colonies under leaves in mid-summer.
- Stink bugs: feed on pods and seeds, causing shriveled beans.
- Bean leaf beetle: round holes in leaves and pods.
- Spider mites: bronzed leaves in hot, dry weather.
Advertisement
Diseases
- White mold: white, cottony growth on stems in cool, wet weather.
- Sudden death syndrome (SDS): yellow patches between leaf veins mid-season.
- Frogeye leaf spot: grey spots with red-brown borders.
- Phytophthora root rot: plants wilt in waterlogged soils.
- Soybean rust: tan-brown pustules; serious in South America.
More Soybean Guides
- How to Grow Soybeans: The Complete Guide
- When to harvest soybeans and edamame
- Soybean yield per acre
- When to plant soybeans
Frequently Asked Questions
What eats soybean leaves?
Bean leaf beetles, Japanese beetles, caterpillars, rabbits and deer.
How do you prevent soybean diseases?
Rotate with corn or cereals, choose resistant varieties and avoid waterlogged fields.
Advertisement
Muhammet Elma
TarlaTapan guides focus on practical, field-tested growing advice. Corrections and suggestions are welcome at info@tarlatapan.tr.