Plants or Crops
      
  
  All Plants or Crops Content
  
        True Armyworm Caterpillars Found in South Dakota
Although true armyworms can feed on numerous crops, they are primarily an issue for corn and wheat. True armyworm caterpillars feed on leaves and can cause severe defoliation when large populations are present.
  
        Blister Beetles Are Active in South Dakota
A common pest of alfalfa, blister beetles pose serious health risks to livestock if their bodies are consumed along with alfalfa bales. Learn some important considerations for identifying and managing blister beetles before harvesting alfalfa this growing season.
  
        Alfalfa Plant Bugs Showing Up in Abundance
Several insect pests have been showing up early in alfalfa this season, including the alfalfa plant bug. Learn how to identify, scout, and manage this pest before it impacts your alfalfa yields.
  
        Large Grasshopper Populations Detected in South Dakota
Very large populations of grasshoppers have been detected in southeastern South Dakota. Although these grasshoppers aren’t causing serious defoliation in crops yet, there is the possibility that they will as the season progresses.
  
        Salvaging Drought-Stressed Small Grains
South Dakota producers often must consider whether to abandon plans to harvest small grain as a cash crop and pivot to harvesting as forage. Learn some factors to keep in mind when evaluating salvage options.
  
        Fertilizer Recommendation Guide
SDSU Extension fertilizer recommendations are based on field research in South Dakota and neighboring states.
  
        How to Prepare Landscape Fabric for In-row Weed Control for Flower and Vegetable Production
Farmers and gardeners have taken an interest in landscape fabric due to its durability, weed suppression and reusability. Learn some tips for preparing it and installing it for a variety of plants this growing season!
  
        Time to Start Scouting for Bean Leaf Beetles
With soybean emergence underway, the next concern is early-season bean leaf beetle defoliation. Learn some expert tips for scouting and managing them before they impact yields.
  
        Considerations for Postemergence Herbicides
Postemergence herbicide applications can protect your crop yields by limiting in-season weed competition. Learn everything you need to know before firing up your sprayer.
  
        Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 1, 2023
Throughout much of the state, enough degree days have accumulated for alfalfa weevil larvae to begin pupating. Scouting should continue until larvae are not observed.