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A brownish tan grasshopper with black chevron marking on its hind legs sitting on a ripening tomato.

Protecting Tomatoes From Grasshoppers in the Garden

During dry summers, it's no surprise when grasshoppers start causing issues in gardens. Learn about some common grasshoppers that feed on tomato plants along with some ways to manage populations.

A creamy white larva next to a hole where it had previously been feeding.

Biology and Management of Squash Vine Borer in the Garden

Squash vine borer larvae are serious pests of pumpkins, zucchini and other winter squashes. Learn how to identify and manage infestations before they impact plant health and productivity this fall.

Gray tear drop shaped bugs feeding on a yellow squash.

Squash Bugs Are Active in South Dakota

Squash bugs are an insect pest that everyone dreads finding in their garden. If left unmanaged, injury caused by their extensive feeding can kill infested squash and cucurbit plants.

Numerous small holes on a green tomato leaf.

What’s Causing the Tiny Holes on My Tomato Leaves?

Flea beetles are once again causing issues for gardeners across South Dakota. These herbivorous beetles can be a pest of many different garden plants, including tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash and lettuce.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimates: June 10, 2022

Although gardening is well underway in South Dakota, squash vine borers should not be an issue for at least another week. See our latest activity estimates based on conditions around the state.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimates: April 29, 2022

Squash vine borers can be a serious garden pest. If left unmanaged, their activity can cause a rapid decline in the health and productivity of zucchini, squash, pumpkins and other winter squash.

Left: Physiological leaf rolling. Right: C-shaped tomato leaves due to herbicide exposure.

Why Are My Tomato Leaves Curled Up?

Rolled up leaves on tomatoes are a common occurrence in South Dakota. From physiological responses to the environment to damaging herbicide exposure, learn about some of the common causes behind rolled tomato leaves.

Squash planted in several carefully spaced holes in strip of landscape fabric.

How to Prepare Landscape Fabric for In-row Weed Control for Flower and Vegetable Production

Farmers and gardeners have taken an interest in landscape fabric due to its durability, weed suppression and reusability. Learn some tips for preparing it and installing it for a variety of plants this growing season!

Many small, thin insects on a yellow background with a mechanical pencil tip for scale.

Invasion of the Western Flower Thrips

Recent southerly winds brought large numbers of western flower thrips to the eastern third of South Dakota. Learn how to identify and manage this pest before they become a problem in your yard and garden.

Cherokee Purple, German Johnson, and Yellow Brandywine tomatoes.

Second-Year Trial of Grafted Heirloom Tomatoes at SDSU

See our latest findings from a second-year research trial of three indeterminate, beefsteak, open-pollinated tomatoes grafted to three unique rootstocks to assess production and marketability for South Dakota farms.