Sunflower
All Sunflower Content
Crops
During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.
Large Grasshopper Nymph Populations Detected in Southeast South Dakota
This week we received several reports of large grasshopper populations originating from southeast South Dakota. The populations were well above threshold and actively defoliating crops.
Sunflower Pest Recap
During 2026, we will be producing a new weekly update on sunflower insect pest activity. This information will be attained via a sampling network of eight locations that are in central South Dakota.
Various Grasshopper Species Are Active Across South Dakota
While scouting, we have noticed increased grasshopper nymph activity and in some areas these populations are close to threshold levels. Crops in areas that have had high populations should be regularly scouted to ensure that extensive defoliation doesn’t go unnoticed.
Sunflower & Oilseeds
There are times when sunflower producers need unbiased answers. That’s what we are here for.
Management of Pyrethroid-resistant Red Sunflower Seed Weevils
Factsheet on the management strategies of Pyrethroid-resistant Red Sunflower Seed Weevils.
Differentiating Insect Damage to Sunflower Seeds
This publication covers different insect damage characteristics to sunflower seeds.
South Dakota Pest Management Guides
The South Dakota Pest Management guides are now available for free. The guides offer recommendations for controlling weeds, insects, and diseases in a variety of South Dakota crops.
Sunflower Hybrid Variety Trial Results
In 2025, sunflower trials were planted in two locations in South Dakota.
Dectes Stem Borer in South Dakota Sunflowers
Factsheet covering Dectes stem borer in sunflowers.