07/31/2026
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Crop conditions and soil moisture vary considerably across the region. Small grains are mostly heading and beginning to turn color, while soybeans range from flowering (R1) to pod development (R3). Most corn is at or approaching the tasseling stage. Field peas are turning color, sunflowers are in the bud to bloom stages, and canola ranges from flowering to pod
development.
Soil moisture conditions remain highly variable, with significant differences occurring even within individual counties. Some areas are experiencing dry conditions and crop moisture stress, while others have adequate moisture but would benefit from additional rainfall. Recent hot temperatures have accelerated development of corn, sunflowers, and soybeans, allowing these crops to catch up after earlier delays.
Towner County has reported a suspected Palmer
amaranth infestation, which is currently being
confirmed through tissue analysis at the Genotyping Center in Fargo. W**d control issues are becoming more apparent across the region, including perennial sow thistle infestations in wheat fields in Pembina County and wild oat infestations in wheat fields in Cavalier County.
Soybean aphids are beginning to appear throughout the region. In most areas, populations remain low, but in some fields, they are approaching the economic threshold. The forecasted hot and dry conditions may slow population growth and provide an opportunity for natural enemies to suppress aphid numbers.
Diamondback moth trap counts continue to increase across the region. Growers should scout canola fields for larval activity and base insecticide applications on field scouting and established economic thresholds rather than trap counts alone.
Featured in the latest NDSU Extension Crop and Pest Report.