Integrating Weed Management Practices to Enhance Productivity of Grazed Pastures

As animal grazing has intensified within Kentucky and the surrounding region problematic weeds such as tall ironweed, spiny amaranth, horsenettle, buttercup, common cocklebur, and thistles have been increasing. These weeds become prominent in pastures because they have spines, thorns, or are unpalatable to animals. Animals selectively graze and avoid these weedy plants and with intensive grazing practices their populations are allowed to increase. Livestock producers are seeking ways to increase pasture productivity by minimizing the impact of these and other weeds on grazed lands.