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Sunish Sehgal combining a field of wheat

Growth Stages of Wheat

Management decisions in wheat production are almost always based on growth stages of the crop. So it is important for wheat producers to be familiar with these growth stages.

Two, dark green aphids on a bright green leaf.

Low-Level Aphid Populations Present in Wheat

We are starting to receive reports of aphid populations in wheat fields throughout much of South Dakota. At this point in the season, weekly scouting is the best bet to monitor the populations.

Wheat field that is turning yellow due to mite infestation.

Brown Wheat Mites Active in South Dakota Wheat

There have been reports of brown wheat mites active in wheat in central and western South Dakota. To date, reports have been for minor infestations, but severe infestations are possible.

Brown to orange worm like insect larvae on brown soil.

Wireworms Causing Problems in South Dakota Sunflowers

Some sunflowers in South Dakota are currently being attacked by wireworms. Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles, which are easily observed throughout the summer.

Purple-brown caterpillar with orange head on a green corn leaf.

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: June 9, 2022

In some areas of South Dakota, we have reached enough degree days that common stalk borer caterpillars will begin moving into corn from weedy hosts along the edges of fields.

Green beetle larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 9, 2022

Alfalfa weevil larvae and some adults have been observed in alfalfa throughout the state this week, and fields should be scouted to ensure that populations don’t cause extensive defoliation.

A tall grassy warm season cover crop blend grown in South Dakota.

Using Annual Cover Crops and Forages in Lieu of Row Crops

Although there are many factors to take into consideration, annual forages and cover crops can be an excellent tool to mitigate challenging planting seasons.

Oat leaves covered in orange pustules.

Crown Rust of Oats

Crown rust continues to be the most economically damaging and important fungal diseases of oats in South Dakota. Learn how to recognize and manage it in oat fields this growing season.

Blades of green wheat in a wheat field.

Scouting Wheat Fields

Scouting is the process of monitoring fields and crops during a growing season. It can provide producers with field specific information on pest pressure and crop injury.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimates: June 10, 2022

Although gardening is well underway in South Dakota, squash vine borers should not be an issue for at least another week. See our latest activity estimates based on conditions around the state.