Before you know it will be several will ask about “Buttercup” and the “Broomsedge”

 

In the spring of the year there will most likely be lots of stressed fields that will have plenty of color as bright yellow fields may be seen on almost any sight- seeing trip. “Buttercup” will seemingly have taken over the unimproved landscapes, fields or even in many improved pastures where some control measure hadn’t been taken.

This is a relatively easy weed to control with several herbicide options available, but it’s best done in the late-winter or early spring. Herbicide applications must be done early while plants are still vegetative. Even where previous applications had been made, it seemed a second flush of weeds were compromising some pastures.

Also, in the spring against the backdrop of new dark green growth can be seen an abundance of “broomsedge” or “broomstraw”. This is a weed that is often reduced or eliminated by simply getting soil pH and fertility to recommended levels. It seems that situation isn’t the case for many pastures.

If you are experiencing problems with either of these plants you may want to call your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office, and speak with a Extension agent about control measures, fertility and proper forage management suggestions.