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Sunflower

All Sunflower Content

Decaying sunflower stalk that has cream colored larvae visible.

Sunflower Bud Moth Caterpillars Observed at the Base of Sunflower Stalks

When we think of observing sunflower bud moths, it probably isn’t during the fall before harvest. However, there are two generations of sunflower bud moth, and the caterpillars of the later generation move to the base of the plant to overwinter.

Image showing a brown stalk with a hollowed out pith area and a white beetle larva present.

Prompt Harvest Can Reduce Lodging Caused by Dectes Stem Borer in Sunflower

If you notice an increased amount of lodging in your sunflower field, it is recommended to harvest the field as soon as possible to reduce losses from Dectes stem bore infestations.

Producer loading pesticide into a sprayer tank.

Chlorpyrifos Products Can be Used in 2024 for Insect Pest Management

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys recently announced that currently registered insecticide products with the active ingredient chlorpyrifos will be legal to use on labeled crops during the 2024 growing season.

Bright-yellow sunflowers growing in a field.

Sunflower Hybrid Variety Trial Results

In 2023, sunflower trials were planted at two locations in South Dakota.

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Crops

During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.

sunflower field

Sunflower & Oilseeds

There are times when sunflower producers need unbiased answers. That’s what we are here for.

sun rising over South Dakota field

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.

Multiple grasshoppers feeding on a corn ear.

Don’t Let Grasshoppers Decrease Your Yields

Throughout the 2023 growing season, grasshopper populations have been causing problems. Those problems aren’t over yet, and we won’t be able to stop monitoring grasshopper activity until the crops are harvested.

Red sunflower seed weevil adult.

Malathion: Emergency crisis exemption for red sunflower seed weevil in South Dakota from Aug. 16-31

An emergency crisis exemption for Malathion has been approved for red sunflower seed weevil control in sunflowers in South Dakota from August 16-31, 2023. Learn everything you need to know before applying it to sunflower crops before the deadline.

Red-brown colored weevil with bent antennae originating on the elongated mouthparts.

Red Sunflower Seed Weevils Emerging in South Dakota

Red sunflower seed weevil adults are emerging in South Dakota and some have been observed in sunflower fields. Learn how to scout and manage this pest before it impacts your sunflowers.