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RUSH SKELETONWEED
Rush skeletonweed is a deep-rooted, creeping perennial that not only reproduces by root but also seed. It inhibits well-drained soils and can be found along roadsides, in rangelands, pastures, as well as crops, reducing yields as much as 70%. Established plants can produce up to 20,000 seeds each year.
Control
Mechanical: Do not cultivate established stands. Tillage spreads root fragments, increasing the size of the infestation.
Biological: Livestock and wildlife will consume this noxious weed when the plant is young. Its bitter flavor and nearly leafless stem causes it to be less palatable when matures. Puccinia chondrillina is a rust that infects the target weed, resulting in premature death. Eriophyes chondrillae is a gall mite that affects the buds by decreasing plant vigor. Cystiphora schmidti is a gall midge that attacks leaves and stems.
Herbicide: This department has seen good results in rangeland, pastures, roadsides, and other non-crop areas by applying products containing clopyralid to rosette to early bolt stage or picloram before or during bolt. Picloram is a "restricted use" product and can only be applied by a licensed applicator.
When choosing any kind of control method, assure that your choice is suited for your particular situation. Always read and follow the entire product label before applying any herbicide. |