Is this foxtail? - Ask Extension
Is this foxtail? If yes, how do I get rid of it. There are patches in our hay field. Thank you. Natalie
Knowledgebase
Is this foxtail? #790448
Asked May 12, 2022, 12:53 PM EDT
Is this foxtail? If yes, how do I get rid of it. There are patches in our hay field. Thank you. Natalie
Linn County Oregon
Expert Response
Hello,
Based on these photos I believe it is Ripgut brome,
Bromus diandrus Roth. One of the many annual weedy grasses that are loosely referred to as foxtail or cheat grass, because it has sharp awns.
At this point, if it is a small patch, hand-pulling before seeds are mature is an option. You could also use a mower or weed-eater to cut this grass to reduce new seed production. Since it is flowering but seeds aren't yet mature, the plant is less likely to regrow.
There are herbicide options but at this timing, none that wouldn't also damage the desirable grasses in your hay field.
More information is available at: https://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/natural%20areas/wr_B/Bromus_diandrus-madritensis-tectorum.pdf
Based on these photos I believe it is Ripgut brome,
Bromus diandrus Roth. One of the many annual weedy grasses that are loosely referred to as foxtail or cheat grass, because it has sharp awns.
At this point, if it is a small patch, hand-pulling before seeds are mature is an option. You could also use a mower or weed-eater to cut this grass to reduce new seed production. Since it is flowering but seeds aren't yet mature, the plant is less likely to regrow.
There are herbicide options but at this timing, none that wouldn't also damage the desirable grasses in your hay field.
More information is available at: https://wric.ucdavis.edu/information/natural%20areas/wr_B/Bromus_diandrus-madritensis-tectorum.pdf
