What Farmers Are Doing in June (That Most People Never See)
June might seem like a quiet time on the farm, but for South Dakota farmers, it’s one of the busiest and most important months of the year. While crops like soybeans are just beginning to grow, farmers are working behind the scenes every day to care for their land, livestock, and crops.
If you’ve ever wondered what farmers do in June, this behind-the-scenes look will give you a better understanding of how their daily work helps produce the food we enjoy.
Crop Scouting: A Daily Job in June
After planting season wraps up, farming in June shifts to crop monitoring. Farmers regularly walk their fields to check how crops—especially soybeans—are emerging and developing.
For soybean farmers, this includes checking for:
Even plant emergence
Healthy leaf development
Strong root systems
They’re also keeping a close eye out for weeds, pests, and disease. Early detection is key, which is why crop scouting is a daily responsibility throughout June.
Learn more about the full growing cycle in our blog on soybeans from planting to harvest.
Weed and Pest Management in Soybean Fields
June is a critical time for managing weeds and pests in South Dakota fields. Weeds compete with crops like soybeans for water, sunlight, and nutrients, so farmers take proactive steps to control them.
But it’s not just about applying products—it’s about making informed decisions. Farmers use integrated pest management (IPM) practices to determine when and if action is needed, ensuring responsible and efficient use of resources.
Modern technology, including GPS-guided equipment, helps farmers apply treatments precisely where they’re needed—reducing waste and protecting the environment.
South Dakota Weather and Farming Decisions
Weather plays a major role in farming in June, especially in South Dakota where conditions can change quickly.
Farmers closely monitor:
Rainfall levels
Soil moisture
Temperature swings
Severe weather risks
Too much rain can lead to disease or delayed fieldwork, while too little can stress crops like soybeans during early growth stages. Farmers adjust their plans daily to respond to these changing conditions.
Livestock Care During Summer Months
For many South Dakota farmers, June also means caring for livestock in warmer temperatures.
Daily livestock tasks include:
Providing fresh water
Monitoring animal health
Managing pasture grazing
Keeping animals comfortable and healthy during the summer months is essential—not only for their well-being but also for producing safe, high-quality food.
Equipment Maintenance and Harvest Prep
Even though harvest may feel far away, farmers are already preparing for it. June is an ideal time for equipment maintenance.
Farmers inspect and service:
Combines
Tractors
Sprayers
This proactive approach helps prevent breakdowns during critical times later in the season.
Soil Health and Sustainable Farming Practices
Another important part of farming in June is caring for the land. South Dakota farmers are committed to sustainability and long-term soil health.
They may evaluate practices like:
Reduced tillage
Cover crops
Precision agriculture technology
These efforts help protect natural resources while ensuring future generations can continue farming.
Read more about sustainability on our blogs.
Why June Matters on the Farm
While it may not look busy from the outside, June is a crucial time for farmers. The decisions made during this month directly impact crop yields, livestock health, and the overall success of the season.
From soybean farmers monitoring early growth to livestock producers managing summer care, South Dakota farmers are working every day to produce safe, nutritious food.
The Takeaway
What farmers are doing in June might not always be visible, but it’s essential work. Behind every field is a farmer making careful, informed decisions to care for crops, animals, and the land.
