5 Destructive Weeds Commonly Found in Crop Fields
By Bolivar Farmers Exchange
Oct 07, 2021For homeowners, weeds can be an unsightly nuisance. For farmers, they’re a much larger problem, as they can take over crops and deplete the soil of nutrients needed to support growing vegetation. Fortunately, there are farm supplies and techniques you can use to prevent or remove the following weeds in your fields.
What Weeds Can Destroy Crops?
1. Field Bindweed
Field bindweed is an aggressive species with roots that can spread as deep as 14 feet down. The root network may thrive for decades before visible foliage sprouts. When it does, it will appear as kidney-shaped leaves that grow as a climbing vine. Eradicate any young seedlings as soon as they’re visible to prevent further growth.
2. Pigweed
Pigweed is easy to detect by its red taproot, which appears in early summer and thrives through the warm season. Cotton and soybeans are common targets for it. Fortunately, you can prevent pigweed development by gathering mulch from your local farm supply store. Place three to six inches of mulch in the winter and then again after spring tilling.
3. Nutsedges
Nutsedge is a set of weeds that grows in trios and has a noticeable V-shape to its grass-like blades. Typically, the weed suggests poor drainage in your soil. While you can uproot the plant before it forms tubers to prevent further damage, you’ll also want to add proper drainage to stop regrowth.
4. Common Chickweed
Present in lawns, small gardens, and large crop fields, this hardy weed can grow from spring through fall. A single plant can generate up to 20,000 seeds, so addressing it as soon as possible is critical to controlling its spread. Fortunately, its root system is shallow, so you can use simple farm supplies, like a garden hoe, to remove the plant.
5. Chinese Privet
Also known as hedge privet, the Chinese privet can thrive in almost any conditions, including wet and dry soil, cool temperatures, and in the sun or shade. The shrub features long branches with leaves and, eventually, poisonous berries. Left unaddressed, the plant can grow 20 feet tall. At the first sight of the invasive privet, hand-pull the weed, including the roots. The plants come up easiest when the soil is moist.
Whether you’re looking to address a weed problem or outfit your property with new mulch, Bolivar Farmers Exchange is your source for an extensive inventory of farm supplies. This trusted feed dealer has been serving Polk County, MO, with a range of top-notch farming products since 1920. Find out more about their offerings online, or call (417) 326-5231 to speak with a team member.