Fungicide seed treatments are tools that can be used to help ensure a uniform soybean stand. Fungicide seed treatments can improve seed germination and seedling emergence of poor-quality seeds due to fungal infection, in some cases. In addition, fungicide seed treatments can provide protection against seedling diseases caused by Fusarium, Phytophthora, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. Benefits from fungicide seed treatments will not be observed in every field and every year, and benefits often depend on the environment. If cool and wet conditions occur after planting, benefits are more likely to be observed. When planting early or into fields with a history of seedling establishment problems, fungicide seed treatments may provide a benefit. Fungicide seed treatments can be considered as “insurance” to help ensure uniform stands, and may pay off in the long run.
