26 Jun Weed Wednesday – Common Burdock
Common Burdock (Arctium minus)
Commonly mistaken for rhubarb in its first year, this NOXIOUS (which means it must be controlled) biennial produces huge rosettes before sending up a shoot 1-2 meters tall in the second year. With its giant taproot, this plant is most often identified once it produces burs (the inspiration for Velcro!) that wreak havoc on your livestock’s hides. Because of the sticky burs, these plants are most commonly found anywhere wildlife, birds or livestock can rub the burs off, such as in coulees, around rubbing rocks, and in trees/brush.
These plants can easily be controlled which some effort. For first year rosettes, spray with 2,4-D or glyphosate. For second year plants or “skeletons” with old burs attached, pick all the burs (wear gloves & sleeves to prevent itchiness), bag them, and then burn them to prevent spread. A few years of control will see noticeable improvements!
For more information on Common Burdock, go to https://secureservercdn.net/198.71.233.67/yjc.cc8.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/N_FS-CommonBurdock.pdf?time=1617028665
See a noxious weed? Contact your local Ag. Fieldman as we may be able to help you with controls.
