Why It Matters

Soybean and sunflower crops are vulnerable to a range of diseases, particularly Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, which can severely impact yield and profitability. While complete resistance is unavailable, cultivar trials have identified lines with partial resistance. This project enhances the National Cultivar Trials (NCTs) by integrating disease surveillance and diagnostics, enabling early detection and informed decision-making. By collaborating with industry and research partners, the initiative supports sustainable crop management and strengthens South Africa’s phytosanitary capacity.

Research Approach

The project combines field surveillance, diagnostic testing, and cultivar screening to assess disease prevalence and resistance. Surveillance is conducted during critical growth stages across production regions, with sample analysis spanning bacteriology, virology, nematology, and morphology. Cultivars are screened under both inoculated and natural field conditions, with data collected from sites like Delmas and Clocolan. Collaboration with ARC-Grain Crops and other experts ensures robust diagnostics and reporting. Findings are digitised and shared with stakeholders to guide future cultivar selection and disease management strategies.

Research Impact to Farmers

Farmers benefit from timely, accurate insights into disease risks affecting soybean and sunflower crops. The surveillance data helps identify cultivars with better resistance profiles, guiding planting decisions and reducing losses. By partnering with seed companies and research institutions, the project ensures that disease ratings are independent and reliable. The initiative also supports national biosecurity efforts, helping farmers prepare for emerging threats like soybean cyst nematode. Ultimately, this work enhances crop resilience, supports sustainable farming, and contributes to long-term productivity.

Collaborators & Research Leads

Lead Institution:

• University of the Free State
• Principal Investigator:
• Dr Lisa Rothmann

Collaborating Institutions:

• Agricultural Research Council – Grain Crops
• National Grain Research Programme
• NPPOZA

Technical Support:

• Dr Sandra Lamprecht
• Dr Khumbuzile Bophela
• Dr Milad Rashidifard
• Dr David Read
• Dr Lindy Esterhuysen