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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.
Herbicide Residual Effects on Cover Crops after Wheat
Fact sheet about herbicide residual effect on cover crops after wheat.
Counties Designated as Disaster Areas and Qualify for Other Programs
Five South Dakota counties have been given disaster declarations due to dry summer conditions. This declaration gives producers in these counties and those in contiguous counties access to USDA-FSA emergency loans.
How Early Is Too Early to Plant Row Crops?
Although it can be tempting to get a head start with row crops, it is important to be mindful of soil temperatures and the associated risks with planting early.
Assessing Winter Wheat Stand In the Spring
Overwintering of winter wheat starts in the late fall and is completed during spring regrowth. Factors, such as genetics, amount of snow cover and winter temperatures, can all play a significant role in winter survival of wheat crops.
Drought Conditions Magnifying Impact of Black Grass Bugs
With much of South Dakota continuing to experience moderate-to-extreme drought conditions, black grass bugs could become a concern in some areas. Large populations of black grass bugs can cause severe damage to pasture.
Monitor Wheat for Early-Season Cutworm Activity
It's finally warming up in South Dakota, and insect activity in wheat fields will be increasing. For wheat, a couple of early-season pests that may already be active are the army cutworm and the pale western cutworm.
Check Your Bins This Spring
As it warms up this spring, don’t forget to check the bins. Grain bins work as solar heat collectors, and the grain inside of them may be much warmer than expected.