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Civil Rights

SDSU Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer in accordance with the nondiscrimination policies of South Dakota State University, the South Dakota Board of Regents and the United States Department of Agriculture.

A large white flower with green leaves

Night-Blooming Flowers and Host Plants for Moths

Moths are fascinating creatures, and they are also important pollinators. Learn about a variety of night-blooming flowers and native host plants that can attract these beneficial insects to your yard and garden.

Rose rust disease symptoms on the tops and bottoms of leaves.

Rose Rust

Common rust of roses is a fungal disease that is found throughout the United States. While hot and dry summers limit the prevalence of the disease, it surfaces when weather conditions are cool and wet.

Multiple red flowers bloom in an open meadow. Green foliage rises from the base of flowers. Spruce trees are seen in the background.

Native Plants to Know: Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)

Geum triflorum or Prairie Smoke (Rosaceae) is a flowering, herbaceous (non-woody stem) perennial, native to North American prairies known for its distinctive nodding and wispy flowers that resemble plumes of smoke

Rose leaves with dark black to purplish spots throughout.

Black Spot Disease in Roses

Black spot is a recurring fungal disease in roses that will decrease the vigor and blooms of rose plants if it is not managed. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing it in your gardens.

Small-flowered columbine in bloom in a wooded area.

Native Plants to Know: Small-Flowered Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla)

Aquilegia brevistyla, or small-flowered columbine, is a native, perennial, herbaceous plant in the Ranunculaceae (buttercup family) that grows in cool, shaded, canyons in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Left: Fireweed growing in a clearing. Right: Purple loosestrife growing in a meadow.

Plant Look-Alikes: What’s the Difference Between Fireweed and Purple Loosestrife?

Fireweed and purple loosestrife are often confused with one another due to their similar appearances, but the two plants have dramatically different impacts on the environment. Learn some key characteristics to help tell them apart.

Full plant profiles: Golden alexander and wild parsnip.

Plant Look-Alikes: What’s the Difference Between Golden Alexander and Wild Parsnip?

Golden alexander (Zizia aurea) is a striking native plant in South Dakota. However, another plant in this region often mistaken for golden alexander does not belong here and contains a harmful toxin.

Orange and yellow zinnia flowers.

Beneficial Flowers for Organic Vegetable Production Systems

Learn about a wide variety of flowers that can be planted in guard rows among vegetables to attract beneficial insects and reduce pest pressure in organic vegetable gardens.

Peace lily plant with glossy, dark-green, oval-shaped leaves and white flowers.

Peace Lily: Houseplant How-To

The Peace Lily is a gorgeous house plant that does well in low-light conditions, making it great for homes and offices. Learn how to take care of it in this "House Plant How-To" article.