- Author: Lynn M. Sosnoskie

The importance of proper weed identification
Weeds are a problem in a variety of systems, from agronomic and horticultural crops, to orchards and vineyards, to turf and ornamentals, to rangelands, and to natural areas. The first step in developing a successful weed management program is to ensure that the unwanted vegetation has been identified correctly. Not all weeds respond equally well to all treatment measures. For example, broadleaf weeds will be managed by the auxinic herbicides (WSSA Group 4) whereas grasses will not. Mowing may be more effective at suppressing upright growing species as opposed to those that are more prostrate. Shallow cultivation may control annual weed species while missing...
- Author: Lynn M. Sosnoskie

Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is a perennial vine native to the Mediterranean region of Europe and Northern Africa that has become naturalized throughout much of the world. The species can reproduce vegetatively (through the spread of rhizomes) and via seed production. Field bindweed seedlings can be distinguished from emerging perennial vines by the presence of two square- to kidney-shaped cotyledons. Leaves are arrow-shaped and alternate along the developing stem. The true leaves of seedlings resemble those on mature vines (just being smaller in size to start). Within six weeks of emergence, the seedlings have developed a taproot and a significant number of lateral roots. For more information about field bindweed,...
- Author: Lynn M. Sosnoskie

You just KNOW that some plants are considered weeds. Their common names give them away. They sound awful. Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). Ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus). Devil's claw (Proboscidea lutea). Smellmelon (Cucumis melo). Itchgrass (Rottboellia cochinchinensis). Dog-strangling vine (Cyanthum rossicum).
Others...well, others seem more benign. Even sweet. For Valentine's day I present to you nine weedy plants with lovely names. Enjoy...
1. Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). How celestial (Sigh...). How divine (Sigh...). How invasive (sigh...wait, what?). Tree-of-heaven is a deciduous tree, native...