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Poinsettia relatives: Euphorbia horrida, crown of thorns, and Euphorbia polychrome.

The Poinsettia and Its Relatives: Exploring Unique Euphorbia Species

Euphorbias are versatile plants, with species suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Whether used as decorative houseplants, or as garden perennials, these plants offer a unique aesthetic, and require minimal care.

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

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 8, 2024

No scouting is necessary for common stalk borer activity based on current degree days. Across South Dakota, the young common stalk borer caterpillars are active in alternative weed and grass hosts.

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

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 16, 2024

Common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in grass and weeds along field edges. Based on recent degree day data throughout the state, no scouting is necessary for common stalk borer activity in fields yet.

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

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 5, 2022

One of the insects we monitor for using degree day accumulation is the alfalfa weevil. With warmer temperatures in the upcoming forecast, the need to scout for alfalfa weevil activity will increase.

Young corn seedlings emerging from a spring field.

Watch Closely for Weed Emergence

Cool, dry conditions have slowed weed emergence and growth, but dry conditions also have limited the activation of preemergent chemicals. Given this scenario, fields need to be scouted closely to ensure that weeds do not get away.

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

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 24, 2024

Throughout South Dakota, common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in alternative weed and grass hosts.

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

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 29, 2025

Based on degree day estimates for common stalk borer caterpillar activity, no scouting in corn fields is necessary at this time.

Treated seed corn on soil.

Corn Seed Treatment Effects on Soil Microbial Activity and Grain Yield at the 2022 Soil Health School

A recent research project at the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition's Soil Health School investigated the impact of omitting corn seed treatments on plant stands, microbial activity and grain yields. The findings may surprise you!

Cluster of white to tan mushrooms emerging on lawn.

Managing Mushroom Growth in Home Lawns

While mushrooms can be fascinating to observe, their presence in your yard may indicate underlying issues that require attention. Learn some tips on how to effectively get rid of them and maintain a healthy, mushroom-free lawn.

Black beetle with a red head on soybean leaf.

Redheaded Flea Beetles Are Active in South Dakota

Redheaded flea beetles are now active in soybean. Although they haven’t caused significant defoliation yet, their activity should be monitored, as other defoliating insects are also present in soybean.