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Content by Christopher Graham

A stand of field peas mixed with small grains being grown for forage.

Peas Offer Options in 2020

Current events have made decisions around crop options very difficult this spring. Field peas are an option that may have a fit for some producers.

Weeds growing in a recently harvested winter wheat field.

Winter Wheat Decisions

Winter wheat planting will soon be starting and a number of decisions will have to be made for a successful winter wheat crop, including: the time of planting, the choice of variety to be planted, disease and pest management decisions and crop insurance.

close-up view of sorghum plants in a field

Determining Sorghum Seeding Rate

Seeding rate can have significant impacts on sorghum yields.

Field with field peas and blue sky with fluffy white clouds

An identification guide of common Diseases of Dry Peas in South Dakota

A guide depicting common diseases of Dry Peas in South Dakota

Winter wheat emerging from a planted field.

Starter Fertilizer in Winter Wheat

Winter wheat planting season is soon at hand. Questions often abound on the issue of fertilization rates, timing and placement. Over the years, a lot of research has focused on starter fertilizers or split-applying nitrogen (N) and other nutrients. In general, phosphorus placed with the seed has been shown to increase tillering and total grain yield. Nitrogen is more uncertain, due to the possibility of salt burn and the associated yield losses.

A sprawling sorghum field ready for harvest

Sorghum Trial Results

In 2024, sorghum trials were conducted in 2 locations in South Dakota.

A sprawling green field of field pea plantings

Field Pea Variety Trial Results

2025 field pea trial results data from different locations in South Dakota.

oats

Oat Variety Trial Results

In 2025, oat variety trials were planted throughout various locations in South Dakota.

wheat field

Spring Wheat Variety Trial Results

The 2025 spring wheat variety trials were planted throughout various locations in South Dakota.

a field of wheat starting to grow

Split Application of Nitrogen in Winter Wheat

Adequate N early in the growing season is important to support healthy tillering and to give young plants the best opportunity to survive the sometimes-harsh South Dakota winter