Getting Ready For Fall
Author: Jessica Bushnell, Noxious Weed Coordinator | Townsend and Three Forks Mosquito District Manager
Getting Ready for Fall
Jessica Bushnell
Noxious Weed Coordinator | Townsend and Three Forks Mosquito District Manager
Fall is an excellent time to tackle noxious weeds, as the cooler weather and increased moisture provide ideal conditions. With a bit of planning, you can make a significant difference in managing these unwanted plants. Start by exploring mechanical methods—inspect your property for areas where weeds are emerging, especially around dead stalks, recently disturbed soil, and along edges.
Now is the perfect time to dig up or pull rosettes, making sure to remove as much of the root as possible, particularly for species like Musk Thistle and Houndstongue. You can also seed bare and disturbed ground or cover garden beds with a black tarp or thick mulch to smother weeds and stop seeds from sprouting.
Fall is also an excellent time to apply herbicides—ideally after the first light frost but before a heavy one. As plants prepare for winter, systemic herbicides can travel through the foliage into the roots, effectively controlling perennial and rhizomatous weeds. Spot spraying is now effective since weeds are more noticeable.
Products like 2,4-D and Dicamba can be beneficial for many species. For the best advice, please feel free to contact your local Noxious Weed District or Extension office.
Don't forget to mark areas with noxious weeds or suspected noxious weeds, so you’re ready for spring treatments. Planning will help ensure a successful and weed-free next year. Additionally, check the local herbicide training schedule from the MSU Extension and the Montana Department of Agriculture to stay up to date with your licenses.
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PhotoCredit: Jessica Bushnell
Image 1 Caption: Musk Thistle Rosette
Photo Provided by Jessica Bushnell
