Crop Management

All Crop Management Content

a woman and a man checking a wheat field

SDSU Extension to host Wheat Walks in June

May 13, 2021

The 2021 Wheat Walks are slated for June 2 and 3 and will be held near Pierre, Clark and Mount Vernon.

Making Use of “Ugly” Feeds

Feed does not have to be perfect to be useful. The key to making smart feeding decisions is knowing what the imperfections are and adjusting accordingly.

SDSU Extension to Host Final Pesticide Education Opportunity

March 31, 2021

As opportunities to obtain 2021 Private Applicator Certification in South Dakota wind down, SDSU Extension is offering a final online pesticide education course Thursday, April 8 from 6–9 p.m. CST.

Several variety trial plots for different crops.

Interpreting Research Results: The Simple Way

Although research results and statistical terminology can seem overwhelming, understanding the basic concepts can be valuable for decision making. When making management decisions, don’t hesitate to ask for research results and statistics to back up marketing claims.

Big Sioux River Flood Information System Sees Heavy Use During Spring 2019

The Big Sioux River Flood Information System is the result of a combined effort between the SD Department of Environment and Natural Resources, local governments, and private industry, to create a product that can be used to predict the impact of flood events in the Big Sioux River Basin.

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.

Cover crops growing in a field of harvested corn.

Utilizing Cover Crops for Grazing: An Assessment on Economic Benefits

Grazing cover crops by cattle provides an option to offset cover crop seed costs and increase farm revenue. To facilitate farmers’ decision making, this article will evaluate the economic profitability from grazing cattle on cover crops using a partial budgeting approach.

A group of cattle grazing on crop residue.

Farm Practices That Improve Soil Health: Integrated Crop-Livestock Systems

An integrated crop-livestock system can provide an alternative management strategy that benefits producer’s income, soil health, and the environment—all while increasing production.

Green sunflower leaves with two snails present on them.

Snails Observed in South Dakota Sunflower

Last week we received reports of snail populations causing issues in South Dakota sunflower fields. Snails are normally not an issue in South Dakota crops but like their slug relatives, they can pose a threat to crops when field conditions are just right.

Three photos of blister beetles. The first is a black colored blister beetle on a purple flower. The second is a gray colored blister beetle on yellow flowers. The third is an orange-brown colored blister beetle feeding on a green leaf.

Check Alfalfa for Blister Beetle Activity

Blister beetles are becoming more common as we progress through the growing season. Recently, there have been multiple reports of blister beetles showing up in alfalfa fields.