Small grains and canola are beginning to be harvested in the region. The lack of mature tillers in HRSW from heat and drought stress during heading will hurt the yields for many. While many received some moisture in July, recent rains have been scattered causing some areas within the region to see drought stress again. Sunflowers are looking excellent so far, however red sunflower seed weevil pressure is present. Continue scouting for insect pests, disease, and weeds in all crops. Especially be sure to keep an eye out for Palmer Amaranth. Palmer will not have hairs and the petiole will be longer than the leaf. If you have a suspicious plant be sure to contact your county extension agent. Now may be a good time to consider planting a cool-season cover crop post-harvest after crops such as peas, wheat or canola, especially if looking for late season forage, or to attract wildlife for the fall. With harvest ongoing be sure to be patient and courteous on the roads.

Ryan Buetow

Extension Cropping Systems Specialist

NDSU Dickinson Research Extension Center