Content by Connie Strunk
Crazy Top Disease Developing in Corn
Crazy top disease was observed in a few fields in the Southeast counties in the state. This disease develops in corn that is flooded or under full water saturation when corn has not reached the four-to-five leaf stage.
Southern Rust, Bacterial Leaf Streak, and Eyespot Are Developing in Corn
Southern rust was found in Yankton County, bacterial leaf streak was found in Brule County, and eyespot was found in several fields and counties the week of July 27, 2020.
Deciding on Fungicide Application to Manage Mid-Late Season Soybean Leaf Fungal Diseases
Soybean leaf diseases can develop in some soybean fields to reach yield-reducing levels. The question that growers often ask is whether it is profitable to apply a fungicide to soybeans at the R3/R4 growth stage in South Dakota.
Is a Fungicide Applied at Tasseling Profitable in Corn?
Corn is currently at tasseling/silking across the state. This is usually the growth stage when a fungicide is applied to control fungal diseases.
Start of Flowering Is the Ideal Time for White Mold Management in Soybeans
Some early planted soybeans are starting to flower (R1 growth stage). One soybean disease that needs to be managed at this growth stage is white mold.
Winter Wheat Diseases Update: Fungal Diseases and Barley Yellow Dwarf Developing
Tan spot and powdery mildew as well as barley yellow dwarf were found developing at low levels in winter wheat fields scouted the week of May 24, 2020.
Soybean Cyst Nematode in South Dakota: History, Biology, and Management
Factsheet about Soybean Cyst Nematode history, biology and management in South Dakota
Does Early Fungicide at Tillering Result in a Profitable Yield?
Tan spot and powdery mildew pathogens are two residue-borne pathogens that can infect wheat early in the season. These diseases can lead to poor tillering, and their continued development can lead to yield loss.
Pre-Plant Disease Management Considerations
If the forecast holds true, it looks like it is going to be another year of excessive soil moisture and possible flooding come this spring. The increased level of soil moisture has implications with regards to plant stand establishment as well as root rot and nematode infestations.
Assess for Corn Stalk Rots
Several corn fields are beginning to show stalk rot and top dieback symptoms. Stalk rots cause the entire plant to die prematurely, which can lead to plants lodging under windy conditions making harvesting problematic.