Search

Alfalfa plant that has numerous holes in the leaves.

Keep Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils

This week we received a report and picture confirmation of early-instar alfalfa weevil larvae in an alfalfa field. Although most alfalfa fields were treated for alfalfa weevils before the first cutting, those fields still need to be scouted.

Cowpea Aphids Infesting Alfalfa

Typically, we worry about pea aphids in alfalfa. However, we noticed that cowpea aphids were present on alfalfa this week. If left unmanaged, cowpea aphids can stunt alfalfa, reduce yields and even kill the plants during severe infestations.

Two mites. From left: Green leaf with two yellow spider mites with dark spots. Green leaf with yellow spider mite.

Spider Mites Reported in South Dakota Crops

With drought conditions continuing in South Dakota, it isn’t surprising that two-spotted spider mite infestations are being reported throughout the state. With hot temperatures in the forecast and limited chances for precipitation, we can expect spider mite populations to thrive in infested fields.

A soybean field showing healthy soybean plants, but roots are infested with SCN. The top right corner has an in-set picture that shows a soybean root with white pear-shaped SCN female cysts.

Drought Conditions May Increase Soybean Cyst Nematode Population in Soil

Moisture stress coupled with above-normal temperatures have been linked with increased soybean cyst nematode populations in the soil. In order to keep populations in the soil below the yield-reducing levels, there are a few management practices which can be used.

Small, pale-green leafhopper on a green alfalfa leaf.

Start Scouting for Potato Leafhoppers in Alfalfa

Potato leafhoppers are a migratory pest that commonly impact alfalfa fields throughout South Dakota. They cannot tolerate our cold winter temperatures, so they travel up from the southern United States each spring.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

Grasshoppers Are Causing Concerns in South Dakota Crops

In 2020, grasshopper populations were an issue in parts of central and western South Dakota. The populations this year are moving into crops earlier and appear to be as bad as the ones observed last year.

Wheat head with a green aphid, aphid mummies and a parasitized aphid.

English Grain Aphids Observed in Wheat

Reports of aphid populations in wheat fields have been slowly increasing in the past week. Most of these populations are well below the economic threshold, but there is a potential for them to increase.

It’s Time To Start Scouting for True Armyworm Caterpillars in Wheat

This week, we collected quite a few true armyworm moths from our traps around eastern South Dakota. That means that true armyworm caterpillars will probably be showing up soon. To play it safe, scouting should start this week to stay ahead of potential issues.

Smart to Lead SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Program

July 06, 2021

South Dakota State University Extension has named Alexander “Sandy” Smart as the new Agriculture and Natural Resources Senior Program Leader.

Two beetles. From left: Yellow beetle with a black head and three distinct black stripes on the back. Yellow beetle with a black head and twelve black spots on the back.

Start Scouting for Striped Cucumber Beetles

Striped cucumber beetles are showing up in gardens across South Dakota. If large populations are present in a garden, they can cause severe injury to squash, cucumbers, melons and other cucurbits if left unmanaged.