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Soybean Aphids Spotted in South Dakota

Soybean aphid populations have been observed in South Dakota. Although these populations are still very small, it is a good reminder that soybean aphid scouting should occur throughout the growing season to prevent population outbreaks and yield loss.

Obliquebanded Leafrollers Active in South Dakota Soybean

If you’ve observed rolled soybean leaves that are held together by webbing, don’t immediately think thistle caterpillar. The obliquebanded leafroller caterpillar will roll soybean leaves and hold the leaf in place with silken webbing.

Redheaded Flea Beetles Active in Soybean

Redheaded flea beetles are active in soybean. Although they haven’t caused significant defoliation yet, their activity should be monitored.

Corn Potassium and Drought

For many crop producers, potassium deficiency has become an increased concern, and this year’s drought conditions have resulted in potassium deficiency symptoms showing up in fields where it would normally not occur.

SDSU Welcomes Ali Nafchi to Precision Agriculture Team

July 09, 2021

The South Dakota State University Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science, along with SDSU Extension, has named Dr. Ali M. Nafchi to serve as an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Precision Agriculture.

Cutworms in Sunflowers

In South Dakota, some late-planted sunflower fields are having some cutworm pressure. Although most cutworm activity should be wrapped up by now, it is possible that some populations may have been feeding up until the beginning of July.

Sunflower Receptacle Maggot Flies Spotted in Sunflower

Quite a few sunflower receptacle maggot flies have been spotted in South Dakota sunflower fields. The adults don’t feed on sunflower, but the larvae of this insect are considered minor pests of South Dakota sunflower.

Cicada Killer Wasps Are Active in South Dakota

The cicada killer wasps are active in South Dakota, which means cicadas are probably not far behind. As their name implies, cicada killer wasps use cicadas as a food source. They can present an impressive spectacle if you observe one carrying a paralyzed cicada from a tree.

Poisonous Plants on Rangelands: Deathcamas and Lupine

With prolonged drought conditions throughout many areas of South Dakota, there is an increase of invasive weeds and poisonous plants on rangelands. Identification of poisonous plants is crucial to ensure livestock production is not compromised.