How to Effectively Get Rid of Troublesome Bitterweed

Bitterweed is a problematic toxic weed that can take over pastures and rangelands in the southwestern United States. Also known as western bitterweed or rubberweed, this persistent plant can be difficult to control once established. Here are some of the most effective ways to get rid of bitterweed and reclaim your pastures.

Why Get Rid of Bitterweed?

Bitterweed is native to Texas and surrounding states, but can quickly become a nuisance weed due to these factors:

• Rapid seed spread – Each plant can produce over 5,000 seeds

• Unpalatable – Livestock avoid grazing it due to bitter taste

• Toxicity – Fresh bitterweed is poisonous and potentially lethal to livestock

• Aggressive growth – Thrives in overgrazed areas with little competition

Therefore, controlling bitterweed is essential, especially on pastures used for grazing.

Cultural Control Methods

Certain management practices can help reduce bitterweed without chemicals

Promote Grass Growth

Perennial grasses, when properly managed, will outcompete bitterweed. Use rotational grazing, deferment, appropriate stocking rates, and fertilization to optimize grass health and density.

Reseed Bare Areas

Replant patches denuded of grass with competitive forage species to prevent bare ground where bitterweed thrives

Hand Pulling

Manually uprooting bitterweed is effective for small infestations. Grab plants low and remove the entire root system.

Mowing/Cutting

Repeated mowing or cutting several times per growing season can help suppress bitterweed. Cut at flower bud stage before seed production.

Prescribed Burns

Burning in spring before seed-set may reduce bitterweed along with other weeds and stimulate grass growth.

Herbicide Control Options

When cultural strategies alone don’t work, adding chemical control can be an effective part of an integrated bitterweed management plan.

2,4-D

The herbicide 2,4-D provides excellent postemergence bitterweed control when applied at 1-2 pints/acre in May or early June before flowering.

Metsulfuron (Escort, etc.)

Metsulfuron is also very effective against bitterweed. Use rate is 0.3-1 oz product/acre.

Dicamba + 2,4-D (WeedMaster)

Combining dicamba with 2,4-D offers increased bitterweed control. Apply WeedMaster at 1-4 pints/acre.

Aminopyralid (GrazonNext HL, etc.)

Products containing aminopyralid are useful on rangeland to target bitterweed while preserving grasses. Apply at 5-8 oz product/acre.

Triclopyr + Fluroxypyr (PastureGard HL)

This combination product provides excellent postemergence bitterweed control when applied at 1.5-2.0 pints/acre.

Always follow herbicide label directions for correct identification, timing, rates, additives, grazing restrictions and safety precautions.

Integrated Bitterweed Management Plan

The most effective approach combines several strategies into an ongoing management plan:

• Promote competitive grass with proper grazing management
• Reseed or overseed bare ground with desirable forages
• Use herbicide spot treatments on remaining patches
• Timely mowing/cutting to prevent seed production
• Hand pull small infestations
• Prevent overgrazing and bare areas for bitterweed to invade

It can take time, but with persistence and repeated implementation of these bitterweed control practices you can reclaim your pastures.

Prevention of Bitterweed Spread

Once bitterweed populations are under control, continue proper management to prevent reinfestation:

• Maintain healthy grass cover at all times
• Avoid overgrazing that weakens grasses
• Quickly reseed any bare or disturbed areas
• Routinely monitor and treat any bitterweed that appears
• Implement weed prevention best practices

Keeping bitterweed out in the first place is far easier than trying to control heavy infestations. With dedicated management techniques, you can get rid of existing bitterweed while preventing its return.