Public Enemy #1!
Puncturevine, aka goathead, (Tribulus terrestris) has been a problem weed in many locations for a long time, but I can only remember seeing it for the first time in southern Oregon about 10 years ago. This is a plant that we should all be aware of, and do everything we can to get rid of it. Puncturevine is a tap-rooted annual, with small, 5-petaled yellow flowers, and small, hairy opposite leaves. Its tendrils can reach 10’ in length! It produces thorned seeds, which when mature will split into smaller segments. The thorns dry to iron hardness, and can be transported in tires, feet, shoes, etc.
I’ve a few tips to share that may help:
1. Learn to recognize this plant early. Most plants grow to maturity, produce flowers and seeds, then die. This plant starts producing seeds almost immediately after germination! Recognizing it and killing it before seed production is crucial in gaining control. The mid-vein on the seedling leaves (see picture) is a clear indicator that you’re dealing with the right villain.
2. Use the right tool at the right time. At seedling stage, this plant can be easily controlled by cutting the taproot, spraying, burning, even pouring boiling water on it! Once it starts producing seeds, those methods no longer apply. The only method for true control now is to sever the taproot, and bag the plant. Here’s why – you can spray the plant and kill it, but the seeds will still remain on the ground, and will still germinate! You’ve killed 1 plant, but 1,000’s will grow in the years to come! Complete removal is the only way to control the plant once seeds are produced, and I’ve seen plants as small as silver dollars producing seed!
Can you imagine our sidewalks and road shoulders in Jacksonville looking like this? I took this picture in Central Point in 2009.
3. If the plants you’re dealing with have produced seed, for Pete’s sake, don’t drive there! If and when it’s safe, get the propane burner out and scorch the area. Even if you don’t kill the seeds, you’ll burn off the spines, thereby removing it’s method of transportation.
On June 16th, in the Jacksonville cemetery (park below in the Britt overflow parking area and walk up), the Jackson county Cooperative Weed Management group will be hosting the 5th Annual “Let’s Pull Together” event, and everyone is invited! Local weed experts will help you identify young yellow starthistle, Scotch broom, and possibly puncturevine plants. You’ll pull a few weeds (in your new, free “Let’s Pull Together t-shirt), visit with friends new and old, and then enjoy a free BBQ. Botanists and weed experts from various agencies and groups will be on hand to answer any questions pertaining to unwanted plant pests. I know you’ll enjoy yourselves, so please stop by. Many handouts will be available. For more information, please call 541-776-4270 x: 3 or markie.germer@jswcd.org.
The city and county have many priorities, so don’t be mistaken into thinking that road frontage that abuts your property will be taken care of by someone else! Remember, your property will suffer from lack of weed control along roads adjacent to your property, and your property will lose value, so take charge! The city and county appreciate your help. Also remember, if you use herbicides, read and follow the label explicitly.
Questions – please give me a call at 326-2549, or write me at bob_budesa@yahoo.com