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Garden & Yard Issues

All Garden & Yard Issues Content

External and internal ring rot symptoms on two potato samples.

Bacterial Ring Rot: Yet another devastating disease of potato

Ring rot is primarily a disease of stored tubers and seed potatoes, where it produces black or brown lines just below the surface of the potato.

A country garden with four raised garden beds.

New season of SDSU Extension Garden Hour starts May 5

April 23, 2026

The latest season of Garden Hour, South Dakota State University Extension’s popular webinar series for gardeners, will start on May 5, 2026.

Early spring lawn with noticeable weed growth.

Organic Herbicides for Lawns

Organic herbicides are becoming more common on the market due to the perception that these products as safer towards humans, pets, and the environment. For those interested in these products, there are several factors to consider.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens
Aug 18

Garden Hour

Make the most of your garden and landscaping with weekly insights and ideas from our team of experts.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens
Aug 11

Garden Hour

Make the most of your garden and landscaping with weekly insights and ideas from our team of experts.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens
Aug 04

Garden Hour

Make the most of your garden and landscaping with weekly insights and ideas from our team of experts.

Annual trials garden at McCrory Gardens
Jul 28

Garden Hour

Make the most of your garden and landscaping with weekly insights and ideas from our team of experts.

Ants on a sidewalk next to some green grass.

Ants Preparing for Another Busy Year

A wet growing season last year combined with a mild winter has boosted ant activity across the state, and we have already received numerous questions from both curious and concerned residents in South Dakota.

A home with ample defensible space throughout the property.

Protecting Your Home and Landscape Against Wildfires

Wildfires pose a significant risk in western South Dakota, particularly within the Black Hills region, where periods of minimal precipitation can lead to drought conditions that elevate fire risk.

Two pictures of green grass demonstrating their physical differences.

Preemergence Crabgrass Herbicide Decisions

The optimal application window for preemergence herbicides to manage crabgrass in turf is normally during April, and earlier in the month during warmer years.