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Watch Closely for Weed Emergence
Cool, dry conditions have slowed weed emergence and growth, but dry conditions also have limited the activation of preemergent chemicals. Given this scenario, fields need to be scouted closely to ensure that weeds do not get away.
Cotton Strip Soil Test: Rapid Assessment of Soil Microbial Activity and Diversity in the Field
Soil has always been considered as a living system due to its biological components: fungi, bacteria and plant roots. Under several ongoing research projects, we started researching how we can use ‘cotton strip assay’ to compare different cover crop mixes to optimize field soil activity and build up better soil health.
How’s Life in the Soil? Ask (Count) the Earthworms.
Earthworms are ‘very special’ creatures on earth, and their contribution in soil nutrient cycling and fertility management has been acknowledged from the beginning of agriculture. So, the question needs to be asked, how can we help improve earthworm populations?
2020 Plant Disease Summaries for Small Grains
A number of field trials were implemented in the 2020 growing season with the general objective of assessing various disease management practices suitable for South Dakota growers and the Great Plains.
Organic Herbicides: Garden and Flower Bed Weed Control
Many South Dakota homeowners do not want to use inorganic or synthetic herbicides due to potential health impacts. Organic herbicides can be a useful tool for weed control when combined with other management practices.
Crop Tolerance to Soil Herbicide Residual
Some herbicides can persist in soil, especially dry soil. Herbicide carryover could be an issue in 2021 across the state depending upon last year’s moisture levels and field conditions.
Wheat Streak Mosaic Developing in Winter Wheat Fields
A few winter wheat fields in central South Dakota have been found with wheat streak mosaic disease. Incidence of this disease varied from a few plants to large portions of the field with yellowing leaves.
Weed Control in No-Till Gardens
Mulch is the key to successful weed control in no-till gardening. It is best to start a no-till garden in the fall to give applied mulch the time to breakdown and suppress any weed growth.
How Well Will Pre-Emergence Herbicides Work in 2021?
It is always good to start with a pre-emergence program to prevent weeds from becoming resistant. With the spring starting out below normal in subsoil, there are questions as to how well preemergent herbicides will work.
Herbicide Residual Effects on Cover Crops After Corn Silage
As cover crop usage has increased in recent years, managing weeds through a longer residual herbicide program has become more complicated. Learn some considerations for cover crops following corn silage.