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How to Avoid Being Dinner: Preventing Tick and Mosquito Bites
Summer is here, and so are the opportunities to enjoy the long days and warm weather. Ticks and mosquitoes share the outdoors with us, and there are things you can do to prevent bites from both.
False Chinch Bugs Are Active in Canola
We have received reports of false chinch bug populations in canola this week. Heavily infested canola fields will sometimes appear drought stressed, but closer inspection reveals that false chinch bugs are the culprits for the wilting plants.
Millipedes May Be Responsible for Reduced Soybean Stands in 2020
When we think of millipedes, it is usually as a nuisance pest indoors. However, there have been reports in South Dakota and neighboring states of millipedes being more than just a nuisance in 2020.
Don’t Get Surprised. Start Scouting for Soybean Aphids.
Soybean aphid populations have been observed in neighboring states and in very small populations in South Dakota. It is a good reminder that soybean aphid scouting should occur throughout the growing season to prevent population outbreaks and yield loss.
Watch Your Squash! Squash Vine Borer Moths Are Active.
Each year vine crops, including squash, zucchini and pumpkin plants, fall victim to squash vine borer larvae feeding inside their stems.
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.
Monitor Soybean and Sunflower for Alfalfa Webworm Caterpillars
In the last couple of weeks, we have received numerous reports of small green caterpillars in soybean and sunflower. The caterpillars have been described as producing webbing and moving extremely quickly when disturbed.
Slugs Causing Issues in Some South Dakota Wheat Fields
Slug activity in wheat fields has been reported in South Dakota. Although slugs are not normally an issue in South Dakota crops, they can pose a threat when field conditions are just right.
Have Excess Produce? Freeze It!
Freezing is one of the easiest forms of preserving food. It reduces food waste, saves money and allows you to have quick quality produce on hand at all times. The
Steam Canning
Steam canning is a quick and simple method of preserving produce using steam. While steam canning was previously not an evidence-based practice, recent research indicates steam canning may be a safe home food preservation method for canning naturally acidified foods.