Content by David Karki

Oats growing in a field.

Effects of Plant Growth Regulator in Oats

Plant growth regulators are human-applied chemicals that manipulate the hormone functions in plants. Learn how they can be used in oats to help reduce lodging and prevent yield loss.

Spring wheat field with wheat emerging in early spring.

Latest Recommended Planting Dates for Spring Wheat in South Dakota

A major question that producers have been asking is, “How late can wheat be planted in South Dakota without a significant reduction in yield potential?” See our latest recommendations for those considering late planting this May.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of March 22, northwest to southeast South Dakota are facing severe drought to abnormally dry conditions, while the northeast is under normal conditions.

Agronomic Considerations for Moisture Deficit Conditions

The current soil moisture stress in South Dakota could be more pronounced than we have seen in last few years. If this continues, cropping decisions may need to be adjusted for the upcoming growing season.

Oats growing in a no-till field.

Planting Considerations for Oats in South Dakota

South Dakota is a leading oat producer in the United States. Learn some important oat planting tips, including timing, variety selection, seeding rate and fertilizer management.

Field pea cover crop blend growing in a field of corn residue.

Midwest Cover Crops Council Releases Third Edition Cover Crops Field Guide

November 29, 2021

Cover crops are used to slow erosion, improve soil health and capture nutrients. From planting to termination, growers face many production decisions, however.

Green cereal rye crop growing throughout a harvested corn field.

Thinking Cover Crops? Winter Rye Between Corn and Soybean

Although the 2021 growing season in has been impacted by widespread drought and record-high temperatures, recent rain events have brought planting cover crops back into the conversation.

Winter wheat field in early fall with small, green wheat plants emerging.

Winter Wheat Planting Considerations

As we move into fall, winter wheat growers often ask, "What is the best time to plant winter wheat?" If planted too early, winter wheat can develop disease and insect problems. If planted too late, it can get winter killed.

Cover crops emerging from a no-till field.

Do Cover Crops and Grazing Harm Soil Properties?

Fact sheet for a study that was conducted to compare short and long-term animal grazing on soil health and water properties at four locations in SD.

a woman and a man checking a wheat field

SDSU Extension to host Wheat Walks in June

May 13, 2021

The 2021 Wheat Walks are slated for June 2 and 3 and will be held near Pierre, Clark and Mount Vernon.

Young tomato plants surrounded by organic mulch in a no-till garden.

Weed Control in No-Till Gardens

Mulch is the key to successful weed control in no-till gardening. It is best to start a no-till garden in the fall to give applied mulch the time to breakdown and suppress any weed growth.