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Tar spot lesions on dried corn leaves.

South Dakota Tar Spot Update: November 8, 2024

In late October, tar spot was identified on dried field corn being sold for decoration at a big box store in eastern South Dakota. This fungal disease can be identified by the black lesions that are on both sides of the leaf.

A farmer observing a field at sunset.

Now is the Time to Plan for Noxious Weed Control in 2025

Since most of South Dakota has experienced several frosts, the opportunities for fall herbicide applications are likely over. Now is the time to plan for noxious weed management for both spring and fall tactics.

Gardener holding a tub of used coffee grounds in a garden.

Spent Coffee Grounds: Fertilizer or Not?

Should you put used coffee grounds in your compost pile? How about on your garden, or in your raised bed?

A plot of land from the side, with plant roots growing down into the soil

SDSU Extension 2025 Crop Hour webinar series starts in January

November 18, 2024

Crop Hour provides producers and industry professionals with information to navigate the
challenges and opportunities of farming in South Dakota. People can participate live via Zoom or watch the recorded presentations on YouTube.

A sprawling green field of field pea plantings

Field Pea Variety Trial Results

In 2024, field pea trials were planted at different locations in South Dakota.

Left: Christmas trees growing at a German farm. Right: Poinsettia plant on display at a Mexican Christmas market.

Cultural History of the Christmas Tree and Poinsettia (Cuetlaxochitl)

Christmas trees and poinsettias are the two plants that symbolize the Christmas season, but why do these plants hold that place that? And where did the association with Christmas originate?

Left: Holiday greenery arranged in a porch pot. Right: Homemade Christmas wreath hanging on a door.

Create Your Own Holiday Greenery This Season!

If you’re already itching to get back into the garden, holiday-themed pots and wreaths can add a fresh touch to the season and bring a little natural cheer to the holidays!

green plants next to a chair next to a window

The Benefits of Having Houseplants

Whether you choose to fill your home with a variety of plants, or simply add one or two, houseplants offer numerous advantages.

Salts accumulate on the soil surface of a field with salinity issues.

Soil Salinity, Sodicity, and Alkalinity in South Dakota Soils

Salinity and sodicity are issues that negatively affect crop production and soil health in South Dakota.

red barn with a white shed in front of it and trees in the background

SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Camp Policies and Procedures

Throughout the manual, various policies indicate that they are in addition to the policies and procedures in place at the camping facilities. As a renter of camping facilities, SDSU Extension and South Dakota 4-H will follow all policies and procedures outlined at the facilities rented and employ any additional policies as needed.