The periods of unseasonably warm weather, especially in Western South Dakota, have temporarily brought several insects and other arthropods out of their winter hiding places. One of the arthropods getting attention lately has been the clover mite.
Everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of flowers and ornamental plants with some simple recommendations.
Fire blight is a disease that can infect apples, pears, and certain ornamental species including crabapples, cotoneaster, and mountain ash. Occasionally it may also appear on cherries, plums, Juneberry (also called Serviceberry or Saskatoon), and raspberry. This disease, caused by the bacteria Erwinia amylovora, can damage blossoms, fruit, leaves, shoots, and branches. If it is not controlled, fire blight may kill the entire tree or shrub. Infected tissue cannot be cured, but will need to be removed from the tree to prevent further spread.
Are you thinking of starting your own vineyard? This publication provides a brief overview of the issues you need to consider in determining whether grape growing might be a good fit for you.
Monthly check list for vineyard work
Updated list of grape varieties recommended for South Dakota.
Fact sheet describing how to grow raspberries in the home garden: selection, planting, and care.
A guide for monitoring, properly identify, and promoting the growth of lady beetles.
A guide of Native Pollinator Plants in South Dakota.
Whatever your reasons to start a vegetable garden: fresh produce with great flavor, exercise, saving money, enticing children (and adults) to eat healthier food, or knowing where your food came from and how it was grown, this booklet will help you with basic information and tips to get started.