 Dalmation toadflax is a short-lived perennial that spreads by seed and creeping roots. It has bright, yellow flowers tinged with orange. Plants grow 1 to 4 feet tall with showy snapdragon like flowers. The stems are light green with a smooth surface. The clasping leaves are light green, alternate, and heart shaped. Lateral roots remain close to the soil surface. Buds that develop on the lateral roots can produce new shoots. A mature plant can produce as many as 50,000 seeds. ControlCultural: Seedlings do not compete well for moisture or in areas with well-established perennial growth.Mechanical: Cultivation will control this noxious weed if repeated often throughout the season. Individual plants can be hand-pulled, though it is best to pull the entire root if possible. Biological: Calaphasia lunula, a defoliating moth, is available. Its effectiveness has been proven. Herbicides: Products containing dicamba or picloram provide good control in rangeland, pastures and other non-crop areas. Repeated applications of dicamba may be necessary through the season. Picloram is a "Restricted Use" product and can only be applied by a licensed applicator. When choosing any kind of control method, always assure that your choice is suited for your particular situation and compliments your long-term objective. Always read and follow the product label before applying any herbicide. | |