Plants or Crops
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Grasshoppers Are Causing Concerns in South Dakota Crops
In 2020, grasshopper populations were an issue in parts of central and western South Dakota. The populations this year are moving into crops earlier and appear to be as bad as the ones observed last year.
Start Scouting for Potato Leafhoppers in Alfalfa
Potato leafhoppers are a migratory pest that commonly impact alfalfa fields throughout South Dakota. They cannot tolerate our cold winter temperatures, so they travel up from the southern United States each spring.
Blister Beetles Showing up in Alfalfa Fields
Blister beetles are now active in South Dakota. Although the larvae of blister beetles can be beneficial by feeding on grasshopper eggs, the adults cause issues when large populations are present in alfalfa at the time of harvest.
Reed Canary Grass: Possible Prussic Acid & Alkaloid Issues
Prussic acid issues with reed canary grass are poorly understood and may go unrecognized if they occur. This article addresses a little-known but interesting aspect of the biology of reed canary grass.
Herbicide Damage to Fruits and Vegetables
Each year in early summer, many growers begin to notice distorted leaves on their fruits, vegetables, and crops. Most commonly the cause is a herbicide application to a nearby field.
What’s Leaving These White Skins on My Lawn?
There have been many reports by homeowners of birds pulling out white, cigarette-looking tubes from their lawns. These tubes are silken tunnel linings created by the cigarette paper webworm.
Squash Vine Borers Ramping up in South Dakota
Last week squash vine borer moths were observed in South Dakota. For this reason, it is important to scout for the moths as well as eggs on the stems of zucchini, squash, pumpkins and related produce.
Soybean Gall Midge Larvae in South Dakota Soybean
Soybean gall midge larvae were observed in South Dakota soybean this week. Although insecticide applications haven’t been very effective at this stage, it is still important to scout fields and determine the location and extent of soybean gall midge infestations.
Soybean Gall Midge Larvae Observed in South Dakota
Soybean gall midge emergence continues to be slow in South Dakota. In the past week, two additional adults have been captured in South Dakota.
Thistle Caterpillars Observed on Canada Thistle
Although thistle caterpillars are normally first observed in July or August, it is possible for them to appear earlier if weather conditions are favorable. While these caterpillars are generally not present in high numbers, they can cause severe defoliation.