Knowledgebase
Weed identification and control #826995
Asked April 24, 2023, 4:18 PM EDT
We had a new weed grow in our pasture and lawn area last year and it's back. It is edging out the native grasses. I have attached some pictures taken today.
It got larger last year and pretty much covered the ground. It stays low and I didn't see any flowers.
We would appreciate an identification and suggestions for control.
Thanks,
Jim White
Elbert County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Jim,
Sorry for the delay in response. That is Kochia--a common annual weed in our area. It had a banner year last year, so I'm not surprised that it is turning up in places where it hadn't been before.
Preventing it from setting seed is critical for control because individual plants will die at the end of the growing season. Thick mulch and vigorous plants can prevent its establishment.
For young plants, like those pictures, mechanical means are often successful for control. Larger plants are more difficult. This fact sheet from CSU covers a variety of control options:https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/natural-resources/identification-and-management-of-kochia-and-russian-thistle-6-314/
I hope this is helpful.
Cordially,
John
