Farm Management
All Farm Management Content
Watch for Red Sunflower Seed Weevils
In South Dakota, sunflower flowering is well underway. That means it is time to start scouting fields for red sunflower seed weevils. During the last two years, red sunflower seed weevil populations have been higher than normal with areas that exceeded the thresholds by as many as 300-500 adults per sunflower head.
Should I Be Concerned About Grasshoppers When Planting Winter Wheat?
During 2019 we have received varying reports regarding grasshopper populations. Many reports have indicated that grasshopper numbers are down. However, we have also received reports of very large grasshopper populations in some areas of South Dakota. So why such a difference?
Peas Offer Options in 2020
Current events have made decisions around crop options very difficult this spring. Field peas are an option that may have a fit for some producers.
Western Bean Cutworm Moths Observed in South Dakota
Over the weekend, South Dakota experienced strong southerly winds, which brought warm temperatures to the state. In addition, these winds also brought insect pests north, which included moths of the western bean cutworm.
Low-Level Aphid Populations Present in Wheat
Reports of aphid populations in wheat fields have been slowly increasing in the past week. Most of these populations are well below the economic threshold, but there is a potential for them to increase.
It’s Time to Start Scouting for Red Sunflower Seed Weevils
In South Dakota, sunflower flowering is getting underway. That means it is time to start scouting fields for red sunflower seed weevils.
False Chinch Bugs Are Active in Canola
We have received reports of false chinch bug populations in canola this week. Heavily infested canola fields will sometimes appear drought stressed, but closer inspection reveals that false chinch bugs are the culprits for the wilting plants.
Grasshoppers Are Causing Concerns in Close-to-Harvest Winter Wheat
During the end of last week, we received reports of grasshoppers feeding on winter wheat that was close to being ready to harvest. One of the questions with the report was, “What insecticide can be sprayed that won’t delay harvest?”
Start Scouting for Grasshopper Activity in Crops and Grasslands
Most of Eastern South Dakota is experiencing very low grasshopper populations. However, this is not the case for many areas in Central and Western South Dakota.
Identifying Red and Gray Sunflower Seed Weevils
When scouting sunflower, the most observed weevil is the red sunflower seed weevil. However, there are two species of seed weevils that can be present on sunflower heads in South Dakota.