Plants or Crops

All Plants or Crops Content

Bergamot flower in a field being pollinated by a honey bee

Managing Forests for Pollinators

Fact sheet on the importance of managing Black Hills forests for pollinators.

Vegetables are displayed, including zucchini, potatoes and radishes

SDSU Extension to host weed management tour at Sisseton farm

July 30, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce a field tour featuring Koeppe Family Fields on Aug. 5, 2025.

A cornfield with severely wind-injured corn throughout.

Wind Injury in Corn

In the aftermath of severe weather, levels of wind damage in corn can vary greatly from field to field. How plants recover largely depends on wind velocity and corn growth stage.

Hail-damaged soybean field with storm clouds in the background.

Making Decisions With Hail-Damaged Row Crops

Late-season hail damage can leave growers wondering what to do next. Before deciding what to do with your hail-damaged fields, take some time to consider a variety of management options.

A photo of a winter grazing pasture with a variety of grasses, shrubs and forbs that was taken at the SDSU Cottonwood Field Station that contains some field pennycress.

2025 Field Pennycress Management Considerations

Field pennycress prevalence on pastures has been observed to be in higher abundance this year in Western South Dakota. When consumed in certain quantities it can be toxic to livestock.

Leaf with noticeable powdery mildew symptoms.

Powdery Mildew Presence in Your Garden: How to identify and prevent it

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that targets a wide range of hosts. It is important to identify its presence as soon as possible to slow its spread and prevent irreversible damage.

Field showing sheet and rill erosion following a heavy rain event.

Soil Erosion Mitigation During Heavy Rainfall Events

Adopting soil health practices that minimize disturbance, increase surface cover and organic matter content, and keep roots growing in the soil can help to increase soil infiltration rates and reduce destruction of soil aggregates from heavy rain.

Young tomato plants surrounded by organic mulch in a no-till garden.

Microbial Water Testing for South Dakota Producers

Microbial water testing is important for produce growers to know the quality of their water to help ensure the safety of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs they produce.

Tree lined hiking trail at Cathedral Spires

Limber Pines of the Cathedral Spires: A Unique Tree

Fact sheet on the history, status and threats of limber pines.

Crop field with various areas highlighted to show variations in crop performance.

Variations in a Field and Variable Rate Technology Adoption

Field variations, including soil properties, nutrient content, and moisture levels, can significantly impact crop yield and farm profits. By understanding the specific needs of different areas, farmers can apply fertilizers, seeds, and other inputs more effectively.