By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is inviting farmers, gardeners, and community members to attend the sixth annual Specialty Crop Field Day on September 15, 2026, in Brookings.
The event provides an opportunity for participants to learn about current research, production practices, and management strategies for specialty crops grown in South Dakota.
The event takes place from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. CDT at the Specialty Crop Research Field South on the SDSU campus. A picnic meal will be provided for attendees. Registration is requested by September 11, 2026, to help organizers prepare for the event.
The field day is designed for vegetable, flower, and fruit growers, as well as home gardeners, Master Gardeners, nonprofit organizations, and agricultural service providers. Participants will have the opportunity to meet experts, exchange ideas, and learn practical information that can support crop production and farm success.
A major highlight of the event is a guided tour of research plots featuring crops such as peppers, pumpkins, tomatoes, lettuce, and cut flowers. During these tours, attendees can learn about crop variety selection, methods to reduce heat stress, disease prevention strategies, and soil management practices that support healthy plant growth.
Visitors will also see different production systems used in specialty crop farming. Demonstrations include open-field production, high tunnels, and caterpillar tunnels, giving attendees a closer look at techniques that can improve crop performance and extend growing seasons.
Educational booths staffed by SDSU faculty, SDSU Extension specialists, and local organizations will be available throughout the event. These booths will provide information, resources, and guidance to help growers address challenges and improve productivity.
The event welcomes people of all ages and encourages participation from both experienced and beginning growers. Organizers recommend wearing comfortable footwear suitable for outdoor conditions, as the tour includes moderate walking through research areas and production fields.
SDSU also aims to make the event accessible to everyone. Individuals needing wheelchair access or other accommodations are encouraged to contact event organizers before the program.
More information about specialty crop research is available through SDSU Extension’s horticulture resources.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables