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Rye growing in in a no-till field.

Effects of Different Cereal Rye and Winter Camelina Seeding Rates on Biomass Production and Soil Properties When Broadcast Seeded

Benefits to soil health generally increase as cover crop biomass production increases. Recent research sought to determine how the seeding rate of two cover crop species and mixtures affected biomass production and some soil health indicators.

A sample of green leaves with noticable bumps at their bases.

Cottonwood Galls

Just about every year I receive samples of fallen cottonwood leaves with a “bump” at the base and the first one for this year was from Winner. This is the cottonwood petiole gall formed by the feed activity of a very small green aphid.

black-colored snow in a ditch

“Snirt” and How To Minimize It

Blowing soils, dust storms and “snirt” (snow with dirt on it) are frequent challenges during dry, windy winters. Learn some soil health principles to limit erosion and minimize snirt on field edges this planting season.

Three images of a small fly on gray background and also present on a penny. For an in-depth description, call SDSU Extension at 605-688-6729.

Soybean Gall Midge Adults Captured in South Dakota

Although soybean gall midge adults have been captured earlier this spring in neighboring states, the first adults were captured in South Dakota on June 17. So far, our captures are low with one adult at two locations near Burbank and Meckling.

Row of cattle swatch grazzing along a fenceline in a field.

Swath Grazing

Swath grazing can be utilized with various crops and can improve utilization of the crops for feed, while decreasing fuel, harvest and feeding costs and also improving soil health.

County map including portions of South Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska and Iowa

Soybean Gall Midge Adults Emerging in South Dakota

Over the weekend, a SDSU Extension collaborator reported that soybean gall midge adults had been captured in Southeastern South Dakota. These are the first adults that have been observed in South Dakota in 2020.

Base of soybean stem with orange larvae present under the epidermis.

Soybean Gall Midge Larvae Active in South Dakota

Soybean gall midge larvae are active in soybean in southeastern South Dakota. The first symptoms of an infestation during this part of the season vary based on the size of the population within the plant.

A small black bug with tan margins on its wings resting on a grass seed head.

Keep an Eye on Black Grass Bugs This Spring

In South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring pest of forage grasses. This native insect first appears in late April and May when grasses emerge from dormancy.

Wheat blade exhibiting brown, crusting strip rust pustules running laterally throughout the blade.

Wheat Diseases Identification Pocket Guide

Accurate plant disease identification is the first step in designing effective and sustainable disease management programs. The purpose of this guide is to provide information on how to recognize wheat diseases and also to provide possible management options.

Teardrop shaped green insect with long legs and antennae on a lighter green leaf.

Pea Aphid Populations Increasing in Alfalfa

While scouting alfalfa this week, we noticed pea aphid populations are starting to increase. The forecast is looking favorable for this pest, so it will be important to continue monitoring populations prior to and after the first cutting.