February 11, 2025 – Grassburs, also known as sandburs or sticker weeds, are common grassy weeds that can negatively impact forage and hay quality in pastures and hayfields. They produce sharp, spiny seed pods that can cause discomfort to animals and reduce the value of hay.
Identification:
Grassburs are typically warm-season annuals or perennials. They are easily recognized in the mature stage by their distinctive seed heads, which contain seed capsules with sharp spines. These capsules usually contain one to three seeds and can penetrate animal tissues, causing pain and potential infection. Unfortunately, grassburs look a lot like grass when immature, and landowners usually only notice them once seed heads are present.
Management Strategies:
1. Cultural Practices:
Maintain Healthy Forage Stands: A dense and healthy stand of desirable grasses can outcompete grassburs. Proper fertilization, irrigation, and grazing management are essential to promote vigorous forage growth.
2. Chemical Control:
Preemergence Herbicides: Applying preemergence herbicides can prevent grassbur seeds from germinating. It is important to apply these herbicides before soil temperatures reach 52°F, as this is when grassbur seeds typically begin to germinate.
Postemergence Herbicides: If grassburs have already emerged, postemergence herbicides can be used to control young plants. Early detection and treatment are crucial for effective management.
For more detailed information on identification and management, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers a comprehensive publication titled Grassbur/Sandbur Identification and Management in Pastures and Hayfields.
Implementing these strategies can help manage grassburs effectively, improving the quality of pastures and hayfields. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
