Crop Management
All Crop Management Content
Effects of Late Spring Frost on Alfalfa
Forage research indicates that, although alfalfa is considered to have good cold temperature tolerance, minor frost damage may occur when plants are exposed to air temperatures slightly below freezing for several hours, and more severe damage will be seen when temperatures drop below 25°F for four or more hours.
The Economic Advantages of No-Till: Diesel Fuel
While no-till and conservation systems are often discussed for their soil health benefits, the economic advantages are becoming increasingly important in today’s farm economy, particularly when it comes to fuel costs.
Crops
During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.
Building Resilient Farms Amid Increasing Weather Variability
Recent decades have brought a noticeable increase in climate variability in South Dakota. Understanding these trends and adopting adaptive management practices can help producers strengthen the resilience of their operations.
Alfalfa Variety Trial Results
Progress reports for alfalfa variety trials.
SDSU Extension Tile Drainage Economics Calculator
Calculator for farmers who are interested in evaluating the decision to install tile drainage from an economic perspective.
Sorghum Weed Control
Early competition, especially from grass, is critical for successfully controlling weeds in sorghum. There are preemergence as well as postemergence herbicides available for this crop. Early treatment provides the best control of broadleaved weeds with crop stage also being a critical factor for some postemergence treatments.
Oat Variety Trial Results
In 2025, oat variety trials were planted throughout various locations in South Dakota.
Educational high tunnel videos now available from SDSU Extension
March 16, 2026
South Dakota State University Extension is continuing its efforts to educate specialty crop producers on high tunnel assembly, management and cropping innovations with a new educational video series.
South Dakota Agricultural Land Soil Productivity Tool
The Ag Land Soil Tables Tool allows users to view soil data and download data by county to further understand the soil rating system. It can help appraisers make baseline agricultural land assessments and determine if adjustments from baseline are needed.