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New Weed in Flower Bed #272171

Asked August 22, 2015, 4:46 PM EDT

I returned from vacation to find some "guests" taking up residence in one of my flower beds.  I've attached photos.  It's tall (3 feet) with large leaves and burr-like flowers (?) emerging. Roots were shallow.
Can you identify from the photos and offer suggestions on how to rid my flower bed of these unwelcome things?
Thanks,
Ranny Cullom
Greeley CO

Weld County Colorado

Expert Response

This weed is Common Cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium).  It is an annual that reproduces only by seeds, which are still immature in the green bur fruits shown in your photos.   So, your best bet is to keep it from maturing seeds:

Sever or cut down the weed- now -  at or just below ground line, using a shovel blade or lopper-type pruning shears.   Watch for any re-growth and cut it down again.   Or, just dig it out carefully.   You can compost the plant or discard in trash.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 24, 2015, 1:26 PM EDT

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