Content by Amanda Bachmann
Slugs: The Slimy Defoliators
Have you noticed defoliation in your garden accompanied by distinct trails on plant leaves? The culprit could be slugs, a common pest that can be found during during cool, wet weather and in certain garden micro-climates.
Malathion: Emergency crisis exemption for red sunflower seed weevil in South Dakota from Aug. 16-31
An emergency crisis exemption for Malathion has been approved for red sunflower seed weevil control in sunflowers in South Dakota from August 16-31, 2023. Learn everything you need to know before applying it to sunflower crops before the deadline.
Red Sunflower Seed Weevils Emerging in South Dakota
Red sunflower seed weevil adults are emerging in South Dakota and some have been observed in sunflower fields. Learn how to scout and manage this pest before it impacts your sunflowers.
2023 Pesticide Container Recycling
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is again offering pesticide container recycling services across the state. View a complete list of 2023 dates and locations.
Redheaded Flea Beetles Clipping Corn Silks
While scouting corn last week, we noticed populations of redheaded flea beetles. These defoliators were removing leaf tissue, but the bigger issue with redheaded flea beetles is that they feed on corn silks as well.
Soybean Aphids Are Active in South Dakota
Small populations of soybean aphids were recently identified while scouting soybean in the Volga and South Shore areas. This is a good reminder that scouting should be ongoing to ensure that populations do not exceed thresholds.
Corn Rootworm Adults Are Emerging in South Dakota
It’s that time of the year when corn rootworms begin emerging in South Dakota. Learn some expert tips for monitoring populations in corn fields to determine if management is necessary.
Wheat Stem Maggots Observed in South Dakota Wheat
When scouting wheat, the presence of bleached heads is often the result of feeding activity by wheat stem maggots. Learn some expert tips for identifying this pest and recognizing its activity in wheat.
Aphids in South Dakota Wheat
Recent wheat scouting revealed low populations of aphids in eastern South Dakota, and some larger populations in Western fields. Learn how to identify, scout, and manage aphids before they impact wheat yields.
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.