Skip to main content

Search

bunches of Aronia berries still on a bush

Soil Testing for Vineyards in South Dakota

Not all soils are conducive to growing quality grapes, so prospective vineyard sites should be tested before a decision is made to plant grapes. Tests can identify soils that are either too high in pH, salts, or salinity, or that are “too rich” (too high in organic matter and nitrogen) for grapes. In addition, testing before planting allows for the incorporation of nutrients—such as phosphorus—that do not move easily through the soil to plant roots.

A hand writing on a financial document with a pen.

Keeping Your Financial Records Secure

When a family emergency or disaster occurs, having quick access to important financial documents is essential.

A group of farmers and ranchers sitting at a meeting

Communication: Importance of Social Support in Agriculture

Maintaining open communication and seeking social support can help producers get through difficult times.

A sprawling sorghum field ready for harvest

Sorghum Trial Results

In 2023, sorghum trials were conducted in 2 locations in South Dakota.

Two young males participating in the robotics challenge at the South Dakota State Fair

South Dakota 4-H Robotics & Engineering 2019 Challenge Packet - Recycle Challenge

The South Dakota 4-H Robotics Challenge is an opportunity for youth who have been learning about robotics to demonstrate their learning, celebrate their accomplishments, and interact with others who share an interest in robotics.

young cowgirl running a horse through the pole bending pattern

State 4-H Rodeo Resources

View the documents and forms to participate in the State 4-H Rodeo.

wheat field

Spring Wheat Variety Trial Results

The 2023 spring wheat reports include data from 10 locations with regional summaries.

A sprawling green field of field pea plantings

Field Pea Variety Trial Results

In 2023, field pea trials were planted at different locations in South Dakota.

grass with field bindweed, a viny green weed with white flowers

Lawn Weed Control

Cultural weed control practices must be included in weed management programs to optimize control and inhibit re-infestation. A healthy, dense turf cover is the best overall defense against weed invasion. Some common cultural weed control practices include planting the most adapted turfgrass species for your environment (i.e. shade, full sun, or hot, dry conditions), maintaining a mowing height of 2.5–3.5 inches, watering deeply but less frequently, and proper soil maintenance including fertilization and core aerification.

A field divided into two planting areas. The left area has young corn plants emerging from the soil. The right has no visible corn emergence yet.

Grassy Weeds

Grassy weeds are a problem in all field crops. They must be identified at early stages of growth so they can be controlled before crop yields are seriously threatened. Control measures are not the same for all grassy weeds, so accurate seedling identification is important.