Content by Madalyn Shires

A round microscope picture of a green wheat leaf with yellow colored, stripe rust pustules throughout.

Stripe Rust Confirmed

Stripe rust has been found in winter wheat in Brookings County during recent scouting. The presence of stripe rust at this time indicates that there is potential inoculum source for this rust in our area.

Top: Field pennycress leaves and seeds. Bottom: Shepherd’s purse leaves and seeds.

Early Season Prevalence of Field Pennycress and Shepherd’s Purse

Many fields that are planted to winter wheat or have yet to be tilled may have a healthy infestation of field pennycress or shepherd’s purse. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing these weeds before they become a problem this growing season.

Current State of Noxious Weed Management in South Dakota

Results of an online survey to determine how South Dakota stakeholders are currently managing noxious weeds.

Wheat leaf showing symptoms of Septoria.

Look Out For Early Season Wheat Diseases

Conditions have been favorable for disease development in South Dakota winter wheat fields, especially for Septoria. It’s important to scout fields to determine what diseases are present before deciding to apply a fungicide early in the season.

Rose Resources for South Dakota

Are you interested in adding roses to your garden? View a collection of video resources highlighting how to care for roses in South Dakota, including tips on managing common diseases and insect pests.

Young farmer analyzing data on a tablet computer beside a crop sprayer.

Pesticide Mixing and Sprayer Calibration Equations

Pesticides need to be applied at proper rates to ensure effective control of the pest. Learn some common equations used to mix pesticides and calibrate sprayers.

South Dakota Pest Management Guides

The South Dakota Pest Management guides are now available for free. The guides offer recommendations for controlling weeds, insects, and diseases in a variety of South Dakota crops.

Alternaria leaf spot symptoms appearing as brown, haloed cankers throughout the leaves of a cucurbit plant.

Cucurbit Diseases in South Dakota

Cucurbit crops grown in both the field and in high tunnels face disease pressure from many fungal and bacterial diseases. Learn how to identify and manage some of the most common ones.

Head of garlic with discoloration due to Embellisia Skin Blotch.

Embellisia Skin Blotch of Garlic

Have you noticed irregular, dark areas on the outer scales of your garlic bulbs? It's possible it might have Embellisia skin blotch, a fungal disease that can develop during periods of high summer moisture.

Bacterial Soft Rot

Bacterial soft rot is a common disease that can occur in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Learn how to identify and manage it before it impacts your harvest.