Lawn

In a Bind With Field Bindweed?

It’s August and field bindweed, one of our most-persistent perennial weeds, is flowering. Although field bindweed is not statewide noxious, it’s locally noxious in Bennett, Bon Homme, Clarke, Lake, Stanley, and Yankton counties.

Late-Season Crabgrass Control

At the start of August, crabgrass is often prevalent in lawns. Ideally, this weed should be controlled earlier in the season, but if early management was missed, a post-emergence herbicide can help control it before it produces more seed.

SDSU Extension to host Backyard Natural Resources series

May 01, 2025

South Dakota State University is pleased to announce the second year of its virtual Backyard Natural Resources series on May 6, 8, 13 and 15, 2025.

Spring Dandelion Control

If dandelions are present on your property this spring, an herbicide application may be worthwhile, because it can kill above-ground growth, meaning a reduced likelihood for seed production that will worsen problem.

Should I Get Rid Of My Dandelions?

While there is much appeal to having a lawn that is free of other plants, there can be benefits. Some weeds that are sprayed out of lawns, including dandelions, can serve as early-season food sources for pollinators.

Why Those Dandelions in Your Yard Aren’t So Bad

While research has shown that pollinators, specifically honey bees, can’t survive on dandelion pollen alone, this doesn’t mean that the dandelions aren’t still important for pollinators.

Late-Season Lawn Care in South Dakota

Good late-season management will enhance lawn quality for the remainder of this year and set up the lawn to come out of the spring with improved density, color and fewer weed issues next year.

Buzzworthy Backyards: How Bee Lawns Are Reinventing Green Spaces

Bee lawns integrate a variety of low-growing perennials and fine fescues that not only require minimal maintenance, but also actively support local wildlife, particularly bees

Monitor Livestock, Pets and Yourself for Eye Gnat Activity

While being outside this week, I noticed a lot of small gnats flying around my legs and really bothering my dogs. I caught a few and identified them as eye gnats. Although this pest is considered a nuisance in most cases, it is capable of transmitting diseases and pathogens.