Plants or Crops
All Plants or Crops Content
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.
Red Sunflower Seed Weevil Populations Are Active in South Dakota
Red sunflower seed weevils are active in South Dakota sunflowers. Scouting should begin for fields that are going to be reaching the R5 stage within the next week.
Plant Bugs Active in Alfalfa
Plant bugs are active in alfalfa fields across the state. A common question we receive from producers is why some of these bugs look so different from others.
Corn Rootworm Adults Are Active in South Dakota
We have been observing a lot of corn rootworm adults in South Dakota. The emergence of these primarily underground pests can provide insight into field population levels and the potential for future root injury.
True Armyworm Caterpillars Observed in South Dakota Wheat
Wheat harvest is underway in South Dakota, and one of our seemingly annual pests has been observed in wheat fields. While scouting last week, we observed small populations of true armyworms in wheat in Northeastern South Dakota.
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.
Redheaded Flea Beetles Are Active in South Dakota
Redheaded flea beetles are now active in soybean. Although they haven’t caused significant defoliation yet, their activity should be monitored, as other defoliating insects are also present in soybean.
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.
True Armyworm Caterpillars Spotted in South Dakota
While scouting this week we observed some very small true armyworm caterpillars. Every year these caterpillars pose a threat to wheat fields, and the best way to stay ahead of them is to start scouting before defoliation is done.
Soybean Gall Midge Larvae Detected in South Dakota Soybean
Soybean gall midge larvae have been detected in southeastern South Dakota. Although the infestations probably won’t result in plant death in many fields in 2022, the infestations could be a source for soybean gall midge adults in 2023.