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Squash vine borer moth on plant.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimate: June 16, 2023

Squash vine borer moths will soon emerge across much of South Dakota, and their larva can cause serious damage to squash plants. See our latest activity predictions and management recommendations based on forecasted conditions from around the state.

Brown slug on a green leaf leaving behind a whitish trail of slime.

Slugs: The Slimy Defoliators

Have you noticed defoliation in your garden accompanied by distinct trails on plant leaves? The culprit could be slugs, a common pest that can be found during during cool, wet weather and in certain garden micro-climates.

a shrub-like plant green leaves and dark purple, grape-like fruit

Fruit Variety Recommendations for South Dakota

Fruit variety recommendations for home fruit growers in South Dakota

a closeup of a row of green plants

SDSU Extension to feature Midland growers at new Cover Crop and Soil Health Field Day

August 07, 2023

SDSU Extension is hosting a Cover Crop and Soil Health Field Day for fruit and vegetable producers from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. CDT on Aug. 14 at Cedar Creek Gardens near Midland, South Dakota.

Three plants with tobacco rattle virus symptoms.

Tobacco Rattle Virus

Tobacco rattle virus is a common ornamental and vegetable virus characterized by ringspots on leaves. Learn what causes it, how to recognize symptoms, and how to prevent it from spreading in your garden.

Wire cage over raised bed garden.

Preventing and Dealing with Hail Damage in the Garden

Do you live in an area prone to hailstorms? All is not lost! Learn about some options to protect your plants when storm clouds threaten along with strategies for caring for damaged plants afterwards.

A brownish tan grasshopper with black chevron marking on its hind legs sitting on a ripening tomato.

Protecting Tomatoes From Grasshoppers in the Garden

During dry summers, it's no surprise when grasshoppers start causing issues in gardens. Learn about some common grasshoppers that feed on tomato plants along with some ways to manage populations.

A creamy white larva next to a hole where it had previously been feeding.

Biology and Management of Squash Vine Borer in the Garden

Squash vine borer larvae are serious pests of pumpkins, zucchini and other winter squashes. Learn how to identify and manage infestations before they impact plant health and productivity this fall.

Cluster of wasps on a honeycombed surface.

Wait, These Wasps Were Here the Whole Time?

Wasps receive attention no matter the time of year, but they are especially noticeable in late summer and early fall. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing different types of wasps in your home and garden.

Several small, light colored grasshopper nymphs feeding on green potato plants. The leaves of the potato plants have small holes in them.

Grasshopper Populations Increasing in South Dakota

Large populations of grasshopper nymphs have been a common observation this year. One concern regarding these populations is that, as the season progresses and they continue to grow, they will need additional resources.