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Plant Identification: Lake lot on Clitherall Lake, Otter Tail County, Minnesota #831572

Asked May 23, 2023, 12:07 PM EDT

Dear U of M Extension Services: This spring 2023, multiple plants have spontaneously germinated and began to grow on our Clitherall Lake lot in Otter Tail County, Minnesota (please see attached photos). These photos show the plants growing in a yard that is a southeast-facing lawn. The lake lot surrounding this "open yard" is a naturally forested lot that includes maple trees, basswood and a limited number of oak trees and ironwood trees. I am writing to ask if you could help: (a) identify this plant (the second attached photo shows a "close up" image of the plants - the leaf shape appears to be a small version of nearby basswood trees), and; (b) the best method/technique to manage/eliminate their growth. I plan to mow the lawn at the end of May and assume that cutting the plants will slow down their growth. Will mowing eliminate their growth or is there a natural/organic protocol I can use to stop/stunt their growth. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Otter Tail County Minnesota

Expert Response

It appears your Basswood/Linden had a particularly heavy crop of seed last year and conditions were just right for them to germinate.  Simply mowing the lawn on a regular basis should take care of them.  You could use a broadleaf weed killer but I don't think that would be necessary.
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied May 23, 2023, 8:41 PM EDT

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