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Forecasted Cold Temperatures Can Be Used To Cool Down Stored Grain
If temperatures are forecasted as being well below freezing, it would probably be a good time to start thinking about cooling stored grain. Cooling grain reduces the activity of stored grain insect pests and suppresses any mold growth that may otherwise occur.
Drought Stress Symptoms in Soybean
Soybeans in South Dakota are in their moisture-critical reproductive stage. Drought stress during this growth stage can significantly impact yield, so here are some things to look for.
Gall Midge Larvae in Soybean Stems
Gall midge larvae were observed recently in soybean stems from a field in South Dakota. These insects were found under the epidermis of the stem that was slightly above the soil line.
Bacterial Leaf Streak Developing at Low Level in Winter Wheat
A few winter wheat fields were found with bacterial leaf streak starting to develop at low levels. Bacterial leaf streak is usually observed starting from flag leaf growth stage. It can be severe on the upper leaves when there is prolonged leaf wetness resulting from frequent rains.
Multiple Rounds of Severe Weather Bring Heavy Rainfall, High Winds, and Soil Erosion
A combination of tillage, no residue, and lack of crop canopy can lead to severe erosion and topsoil loss in the face of extreme weather patterns in the spring. The most effective strategy for producers to adapt to these extreme events is to improve soil health.
Fusarium Head Blight Predicted Risk for Spring Wheat
Most of the spring wheat is at or will soon be at flowering. One disease that can develop in wheat at this growth stage is fusarium head blight (FHB or scab).
Winter Wheat Diseases Update
Powdery mildew, fusarium head blight and leaf rust were observed in a few winter wheat fields recently scouted. The recent rainfall showers and warm temperatures have favored these diseases to develop in winter wheat.
Start of Flowering Is the Ideal Time for White Mold Management in Soybeans
Some early planted soybeans are starting to flower (R1 growth stage). One soybean disease that needs to be managed at this growth stage is white mold.
Fusarium Crown and Root Rot Observed in Oats
Some oat fields are showing plants wilting with tillers dying prematurely and heads looking bleached. Inspecting the crown and sub-crown area reveals the discoloration and rotting and sometimes a pinkish color can be observed. These are typical symptoms of Fusarium root and crown rot.
Know Your West Nile Virus Vectors
In some areas of South Dakota, recent precipitation has led to an increase in mosquito activity. To reduce the chances of contracting West Nile Virus, it is important to understand the behavior of the mosquitos capable of vectoring it.