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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.

Small red and black larvae feeding on the green leaves of a potato plant.

What Is Eating the Leaves on My Potato Plants?

Colorado potato beetles are currently active in South Dakota. These beetles are a major pest of potatoes and other members of the nightshade family, including tomatoes, peppers and eggplants.

Small, white moth with a pattern of brown stripes on the wings.

Sod Webworms Causing Issues in Stressed Lawns

Sod webworm moths have been very active during the last couple of weeks. These small moths are an indicator of the potential for lawncare issues to come.

Gray tear drop shaped bugs feeding on a yellow squash.

Squash Bugs Are Active in South Dakota

Squash bugs are an insect pest that everyone dreads finding in their garden. If left unmanaged, injury caused by their extensive feeding can kill infested squash and cucurbit plants.

Numerous small holes on a green tomato leaf.

What’s Causing the Tiny Holes on My Tomato Leaves?

Flea beetles are once again causing issues for gardeners across South Dakota. These herbivorous beetles can be a pest of many different garden plants, including tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash and lettuce.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimates: June 10, 2022

Although gardening is well underway in South Dakota, squash vine borers should not be an issue for at least another week. See our latest activity estimates based on conditions around the state.

Left: Adult honey bee. Right: Bicolored striped-sweat bee

Beneficial Pollinators: Honey Bees and Bicolored Striped-Sweat Bee

With temperatures increasing in South Dakota, expect to see an increase of beneficial pollinators searching for blooming plants. Learn about two important pollinators, the honey bee and the native bicolored striped-sweat bee.