Content by Philip Rozeboom

Hessian Fly Pupae Detected in Central South Dakota
Recent reports of lodged wheat in central South Dakota revealed Hessian fly pupae in the lodged plants. Learn how to identify and manage this pest before it impacts your wheat harvest.

Grasshoppers Causing Headaches in South Dakota Gardens
Grasshopper populations are causing extensive defoliation around yards and gardens in our region this summer. Learn some important considerations for scouting populations and applying insecticides if needed.

Squash Vine Borer Activity Estimate: June 21, 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.

Asparagus Beetles Active in South Dakota
Two insects that we recommend scouting for in asparagus are the common asparagus beetle and the twelve-spotted asparagus beetle. Learn how to identify and manage both before they cause serious issues in your garden.

Grasshoppers Continue to Be an Issue During 2023
We have received numerous reports of very large populations of grasshopper nymphs in June. Before management action is taken, it is important to determine what stage observed grasshoppers are at.

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.