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A close up of prickly Russian thistle

Prickly Russian Thistle

Publications that provide introductory and expanded information on the notorious invasive plant, prickly Russian thistle.

Barley yellow dwarf developing in winter wheat.

Barley yellow dwarf is starting to develop in winter wheat. Barley yellow dwarf is caused by the Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV). This disease usually becomes more distinct at flag leaf emergence. A typical symptom of Barley yellow dwarf is the purplish-yellow color of infected leaves, especially the flag leaf.

Color-coded map showing the spring 2022 first-leaf return interval. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Late Spring Bloom in 2022

In South Dakota, with temperatures cooler than average in 2022, the arrival of spring has been later than usual. Indicators like the first leaf or bloom of some common plants can be used to define the arrival of spring.

large multi-row sprayer adding chemicals to a field

Early Season Insecticide Applications in Wheat

Many wheat producers in South Dakota have adopted more intensive management practices in the last few years, including an early season application of fungicide and, in some cases, insecticide.

Sunset over two grain bins in a field.

Inspecting Grain Bins After a Windstorm

Due to their high profile and light structure, metal grain bins are highly susceptible to wind damage. View a step-by-step guide for inspecting them in the aftermath of a windstorm.

A pile of brown wheat seeds

Fungicide Seed Treatments for Winter Wheat

As producers are preparing to plant winter wheat, one of the decisions to make is whether to use a fungicide seed treatment, and if the answer is yes, which product to use.

A hand examining a wheat plant in a wheat field

Improving Protein Content in Wheat

Wheat producers in South Dakota always strive to grow a premium product. Quality in wheat often depends on test weight and protein content.

A yellowing soybean plant with brown spots on the leaves.

Soybean Diseases Update

A few soybean fields scouted had between low to moderate levels of brown spot (also known as Septoria leaf spot). Soybean planted into soybean stubble had elevated levels of brown spot.

soybean field with white mold

Late-Season Soybean Diseases: Know what’s killing your soybeans

Late-season soybean diseases can sometimes be mistaken for natural senescence. A closer look at the stems and roots of dying plants and the pattern displayed by dead plants in the field may reveal root or stem rots going on. In order to devise effective management practices for future soybean seasons, it is important to determine the cause of early soybean plants death.

Oats growing in a no-till field.

Planting Considerations for Oats in South Dakota

South Dakota is a leading oat producer in the United States. Learn some important oat planting tips, including timing, variety selection, seeding rate and fertilizer management.