Rangeland and pasture weeds are prominent this year because grass stands were
weakened by last summer's drought. In some cases, herbicide applications may be warranted; however, if the application is intended more for cosmetic reasons, save your money. Seasoned pasture managers will tell you that the more experience they get with grazing and pasture management, the less spraying they do. In fact, any time a pasture is sprayed, it indicates that grazing has not been as effective as it could be or that the owner wants a quick fix.
First, a profitable pasture situation requires high management but low dollar input and spraying costs money. Second, livestock eat many plants, including those we label as weeds. In fact, many weeds can be good feed if grazed while young and tender. Third, unpalatable weeds usually become established in pastures after grass is weakened by severe grazing. They thrive when grazing management fails to encourage vigorous grass regrowth. Finally, unless pasture and livestock are managed to benefit both plants and animals, the weeds will return despite spraying.
Do you manage your grazing to allow adequate rest so your grass can increase its vigor? If not, don't waste money spraying weeds and brush - they'll just keep returning. If you do manage your grazing well, spraying weeds and brush can hasten improvement of your pasture or protect it from recent invasions.
Early June is the best time to control most perennials, annuals, and woody plants. Read and follow all label directions, including any post application grazing restrictions.
Small annual broadleaf weeds are controlled well by either 2,4-D ester or Ally. Mixing some Banvel with the 2,4-D improves control if weeds have gotten larger. Be especially careful when using Banvel anywhere near sensitive crops, gardens, or trees because it can drift half a mile or more.
For tougher weeds, including most perennials like western ragweed, vervain, ironweed, and broom snakeweed, Tordon is quite effective and provides some soil residual activity to limit new weed seedlings. Another good choice to control these tougher weeds is Grazon, which is a premix of Tordon and 2,4-D.
When woody plants are your main problem, Tordon, Spike, and Crossbow usually are your best choices in pasture and rangeland.
Dave Varner is an Extension Educator with the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension office in Dodge County. Dave may be contacted at 727-2775, 1206 West 23rd Street in Fremont, or at dvarner1@unl.edu
