Understanding Stinkweed: A Guide on Eliminating Stinkweed Vegetation
In gardens and lawns across the country, a pesky intruder known as stinkweed, or field pennygrass, can pose a significant challenge. This invasive weed can grow up to 2 to 3 feet tall (61-91 cm) and, if left unchecked, can produce a substantial number of seeds that remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years.
Stinkweed plants start as a low rosette of leaves, with stems growing from the center to support branches topped with clusters of small, white flowers. The plants can produce between 15,000 to 20,000 seeds, and it's crucial to get rid of them before they go to seed to prevent the spread of seeds.
Pulling up stinkweed is not a difficult task, but it's essential to wear gloves to protect hands from the nasty smell. Using a hoe can also help in removing stinkweed if bending and stooping are difficult for the back and knees. However, broad-spectrum herbicides are generally not safe to use to kill stinkweed, and the best option is to pull up the weed. Organic versions of broad-spectrum herbicides may be a safer option for those seeking a more natural solution.
To prevent stinkweed flowers and seedpod formation, weekly watering in the absence of rain and regular mowing are recommended. Mowing should be done often enough that no more than one-third of the grass blade length is removed each time.
Local garden centers can help select the right products and develop a fertilization schedule for your specific type of turf grass and geographical area. A fertilization program should be followed to discourage stinkweed growth.
Management for both types of stinkweed, which grow in spring and summer, and fall and winter, is the same. It involves timely mechanical removal before seed set, using appropriate herbicides in crop rotation, maintaining healthy competitive vegetation, and practicing good crop hygiene to prevent its spread across different regions.
In addition to this comprehensive guide, the platform offers a free e-book "How to Grow Delicious Tomatoes" for subscribing to the platform newsletter. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these resources can help you maintain a beautiful, weed-free garden.
Jackie Carroll, the author of over 500 articles on various topics for this platform, hopes that this guide will help you manage stinkweed effectively and enjoy your garden to the fullest.
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