Why is it a problem?
- Outcompetes native plants for nutrients, water, and space
- Can decrease productivity of pastures and decreases suitability of foraging sites for grazers
- Seeds spread by wind, livestock, vehicles, and machinery and in contaminated hay and crop seeds
- Readily establishes in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and recently cleared land
How do I manage this plant?
- Cutting plants at the stem base can be effective, but it’s best to dig as much root as possible (wear gloves)
- Discard any flowering stems to prevent seed spread
- Mowing causes stems to form new branches but will prevent seed production. Repeated mowing (4+ years) can weaken plants.
- After removal, reseed/plant the area with native or non-invasive species
- If mechanical methods are not effective, can be controlled with herbicides
- To prevent introduction, purchase Certified Weed Free Forage
