Content by Philip Rozeboom
Sunflower Moths Observed in South Dakota
Sunflower moths have been observed in South Dakota sunflower fields this week. Sunflower heads are most susceptible to damage caused by the sunflower moth caterpillars from the onset of flowering to when the ray petals begin drying.
Woolly Cupgrass Management
Compared to other grassy weeds, woolly cupgrass is difficult to manage due to the large seed and tolerance to select herbicides. Proper identification will ensure proper selection of management tactics.
It’s Time to Scout for Soybean Aphids
Small populations of soybean aphids were observed this week while scouting. Early scouting will ensure that populations do not rapidly increase and exceed the recommended economic threshold.
Weeds Are Starting to Flower: Management tactics to minimize seed production in soybean
Flowering weeds are an indication that seed production is about to occur, and viable seeds can soon be produced. Learn a variety of strategies to manage these weeds before they become a problem in your soybean fields.
Potato Leafhoppers Becoming Prevalent
Potato leafhoppers are a migratory pest that impact South Dakota alfalfa each year. At this point in the growing season, they have become established and are now causing widespread issues.
Wheat Stem Sawfly Adults Observed in South Dakota
During the 2024 wheat stem sawfly survey, wheat stem sawfly adults were captured in northwestern South Dakota. Observation is used to determine areas where solid stem wheat varieties should be considered.
Monitor Crops for Grasshopper Activity
Abundant precipitation throughout much of South Dakota has resulted in less grasshopper observations. However, in areas where grasshoppers were an issue in 2023, they are starting to show up again.
Excess Moisture and Heat Will Likely Increase Weed Growth and Germination
With warmer temperatures on the horizon, crop growth and development is set to rapidly increase, and so is weed growth and germination. Learn some expert tips for scouting and managing later-emerging weeds.
Would you rather know or assume? A reminder to check varieties before spraying.
No matter how busy you are this growing season or in the future, you should never be too busy to stop and take a few minutes to double check herbicide types and crop varieties before spraying.
Dectes Stem Borer Adults Are Active in Soybean
SDSU Extension is again surveying soybean in South Dakota for Dectes stem borer adults. After a slow start this growing season, large populations of beetles were observed in soybeans last week.