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Small black fly.

What Are Those Little Flies That Keep Biting Me?

If you have been swarmed and bitten by small black flies this year, you’re not alone. The culprits of these bites are commonly referred to as black flies or buffalo gnats. The reason we are noticing so many in 2019 is likely due to favorable spring conditions that included a lot of moisture.

spotted wing fruit fly male

Spotted Wing Fruit Fly Damaging Fruit Crops

The spotted wing fruit fly is a new pest problem that originated in Asia and was only first identified here in the United States in California in 2008. It was first seen in South Dakota in 2013.

variety of lilies at garden shop

Easter Lilies & Garden Lilies

Easter lilies are a very popular holiday plant, and if you really like lilies, there are many different kinds that you can plant in your own garden.

Fresh potatoes, carrots and canned vegetables in the cellar.

Storage Life of Vegetables

The storage life of various types of vegetables can be extended by several days or even months by keeping them at recommended temperature and humidity levels.

Potted aloe vera plant with green, fleshy, lance-shaped, leaves.

Aloe Vera: Houseplant How-To

Since aloe vera requires minimal car and also provides medicinal properties, it's an excellent addition to any home. Learn how to take care of it in this "House Plant How-To" article!

A nest of Asian Needle Ants.

No Documented Sightings of Asian Needle Ants in South Dakota

Despite reports from major news networks citing that Asian needle ants are in South Dakota, we have no evidence that the ant is established or has ever been documented in the state.

Wheat blade with strip rust symptoms.

Stripe Rust Starting To Develop in Winter Wheat

Stripe rust was found in a few winter wheat fields scouted this week. The presence of a few plants with stripe rust indicates there is inoculum of this pathogen in the state.

A soybean plant with wilting leaves due to stem canker surrounded by healthy soybean plants.

Stem Canker Developing in Some Soybean Fields

A few soybean fields are showing some wilting plants due to stem canker. The field entries and head rows are the most-impacted parts of these fields. The current dry conditions are stressing the plants and causing early development of the disease.

Small, slender, tan bug on a green leaf

Damsel Bugs: Beneficial Predators in Managed and Agricultural Landscapes

It is important to remember that not all insects are pests. Damsel bugs are beneficial predators that feed on soft-bodied insects, including many agricultural and garden pests.

A Red Colummbine branch with several, bell-shaped pink flowers hanging from the end.

Wild Columbine

Red columbine, Aquilegia canadensis, is this week’s native perennial to know. Also known as wild columbine, this plant has striking red flowers that droop from the ends of tall stalks.