Content by Adam Varenhorst
Striped Cucumber Beetles Are Active in South Dakota
South Dakota is home to two species of cucumber beetles that can cause severe injury to cucurbits, including squash, cucumbers, melons and pumpkins. Learn how to detect and manage both beetles before they impact your harvest.
Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimate: June 16, 2023
Squash vine borer moths will soon emerge across much of South Dakota, and their larva can cause serious damage to squash plants. See our latest activity predictions and management recommendations based on forecasted conditions from around the state.
True Armyworm Caterpillars Found in South Dakota
Although true armyworms can feed on numerous crops, they are primarily an issue for corn and wheat. True armyworm caterpillars feed on leaves and can cause severe defoliation when large populations are present.
Blister Beetles Are Active in South Dakota
A common pest of alfalfa, blister beetles pose serious health risks to livestock if their bodies are consumed along with alfalfa bales. Learn some important considerations for identifying and managing blister beetles before harvesting alfalfa this growing season.
Large Grasshopper Populations Detected in South Dakota
Very large populations of grasshoppers have been detected in southeastern South Dakota. Although these grasshoppers aren’t causing serious defoliation in crops yet, there is the possibility that they will as the season progresses.
Alfalfa Plant Bugs Showing Up in Abundance
Several insect pests have been showing up early in alfalfa this season, including the alfalfa plant bug. Learn how to identify, scout, and manage this pest before it impacts your alfalfa yields.
Time to Start Scouting for Bean Leaf Beetles
With soybean emergence underway, the next concern is early-season bean leaf beetle defoliation. Learn some expert tips for scouting and managing them before they impact yields.
Potato Leafhoppers Arriving Early This Season
Potato leafhoppers are already active in alfalfa due to prevalent south winds and above-average temperatures. Learn some tips for scouting and managing them before they impact yields.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 1, 2023
Throughout much of the state, enough degree days have accumulated for alfalfa weevil larvae to begin pupating. Scouting should continue until larvae are not observed.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 25, 2023
Common stalk borer caterpillars are a frequent early-season pest of corn, and their hatching and movement can be estimated by using degree days. See our latest scouting and management recommendations based on observations from around the state.