Tag: Weed control

While prized by early-emerging pollinators, purple dead nettle has earned a negative reputation among farmers and gardeners due to its aggressive spreading habits. Understanding why is purple dead nettle bad requires separating its invasive qualities from its surprisingly beneficial traits.

While flax is known to be a poor competitor against weeds, timely and targeted spraying is a critical component of a successful integrated management strategy. This requires careful consideration of the herbicides and fungicides registered for use on flax, as well as the crop's unique sensitivity to certain chemicals and environmental conditions.

Founded in 1868, Scotts has been a cornerstone of American lawn and garden care for over a century. So, what does Scotts help with? They offer a comprehensive range of products designed to help homeowners cultivate healthier, more vibrant lawns and gardens, addressing common issues like weeds, pests, and poor soil quality.

While the names are often used interchangeably, and both can be considered weeds, goosegrass and cleavers are not the same plant. Many different plants are colloquially called "goosegrass," which can lead to confusion, but the key to distinguishing them lies in knowing their specific botanical names and characteristics.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), using sod for erosion control can reduce soil loss by up to 99 percent on sloped areas compared to bare soil. The benefits of grass SOD extend far beyond just preventing erosion, offering immediate aesthetic improvements and long-term environmental advantages for your property.

Paraquat is a restricted-use pesticide, and while banned in over 60 countries, it remains widely used in the US on dozens of crops, including common foods like corn, soy, and wheat. This powerful herbicide is applied for various reasons in agriculture, prompting questions about what food is paraquat used in and the safety surrounding its use.

Dodder infestations have been reported to reduce crop yields by as much as 90% in some cases, posing a significant threat to agriculture. Understanding what the effects of dodder are on host plants, livestock, and the wider ecosystem is crucial for effective management.

Dating back to the prehistoric era, the tenacious horsetail is far more than a simple weed; it is a persistent invasive species with surprising and significant damaging capabilities. The serious damage of horsetail can affect property foundations, agricultural land, and even the health of grazing animals.

According to organic certification standards, synthetic herbicides such as glyphosate are strictly prohibited in the production of certified organic grains. This critical rule is a cornerstone of organic farming, designed to avoid contamination from the chemical known commercially as Roundup.

Dandelions, often seen as pesky weeds, are not only edible but also highly nutritious, used in culinary dishes and traditional medicine for centuries. However, the critical question of whether you can eat dandelions from your own lawn hinges entirely on how that lawn has been managed. The presence of herbicides and other chemicals poses a significant risk that must be carefully evaluated before foraging.