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Hands holding a corn leaf with a single tar spot lesion developing.

South Dakota Tar Spot Update: September 9, 2024

Tar spot is a potentially yield-impacting disease of corn, and it was recently found in plant samples from Minnehaha and Turner counties. Learn some expert tips for scouting and managing it this season.

Tractor applying residual herbicide to a bare field.

Fall-Applied Residual Herbicides

Many parts of South Dakota can experience dry conditions when residual herbicides are applied, resulting in inadequate weed control. In these areas, residual herbicides can be applied in the fall and take advantage of a longer period to receive activating precipitation.

Small, green and yellow florets being held by a hand.

Isolated Female Waterhemp Plant Produced Seed: Implications that pollen is in the air

Recent observations by the SDSU Extension Weed Science team highlight that pollen can move far distances to pollinate isolated female plants. This reinforces the need to effectively manage weeds in fields and adjacent areas.

Several plastic bottles of pesticides gathered together in a white tub.

Managing Waste Pesticides: Restricted Use Pesticides

While pesticides are intended only to impact pests, they can have negative consequences on unintended targets, such as humans and wildlife, if not handled properly. Learn what steps you need to take to safely dispose of unused pesticides and comply with regulations.

Gardener holding a tray of tomato seedlings ready for transplanting.

When Should I Plant My Warm-Season Vegetables?

Knowing when to plant warm-season vegetables can be a challenge in South Dakota when there are dramatic temperature swings each spring. Learn some expert tips for getting started!

Pile of freshly chopped corn silage.

Best Management Practices for Corn Silage Harvest

Ensiling involves many different components to ensure a successful harvest and high-quality, safe feedstuff. Learn some expert tips to consider when chopping and storing corn silage to maximize the value and quality of your harvest.

Left: Lady beetle on red clover. Right: Cabbage looper on broccolini.

Friends and Foes of Brassica Crops

Brassica crops are a group of plants widely cultivated for their nutritional value and versatility in agriculture. Understanding their relationship with beneficial and detrimental insects is crucial for maintaining healthy crops and productive harvests.

Completed black soldier fly rearing bin sitting on a worktable.

Insect Bioconversion: How to Compost With Black Soldier Flies

Much like composting, black soldier flies can be used in a rearing container to convert organic matter into nutrient-rich food, which can then be used in your garden. Learn how to construct a rearing container with this step-by-step guide!

Two fingers pointing out a single tar spot lesion on a corn leaf.

South Dakota Tar Spot Update: September 13, 2024

Tar spot was recently found in Turner, Clay, Union, Yankton, and Bon Homme Counties. Low levels of tar spot do not indicate a need to spray, but they do indicate that fields should be routinely scouted until harvest.

A muture red currant shrub in a landscape with bright-red berries throughout.

Currants: How to Grow It

Currants are small shrubs that can provide fruit even in partially or lightly shaded locations. Learn some expert tips for planting, growing, and harvesting them in this resource!