Weed Control - Be On The Lookout
For "Smooth Bedstraw"
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Description
- Control & Prevention
- Related Links
Introduction
Smooth Bedstraw (Galium mollugo) is becoming more
noticeable on farms.
Figure 1: Smooth Bedstraw (Galium mollugo)
Description
This is a perennial weed that reproduces by seed and by
roots. The stem is square, smooth, 20-70 cm long, and weak. It grows in
clumps and leaves are in a whorl (8 leaves).
Figure 2: Smooth bedstraw growing in a
clump with leaves in a whorl.
Flowers are densely clustered at the ends of branches, 2-4
mm across, with 4 small white petals.
Figure 3: Smooth Bedstraw flowers Control & Prevention
- Seeds: Buy clean seed "Certified". Bedstraw has been
spreading from farm to farm in the Bird's-foot trefoil seed. The seed
is of similar size to trefoil and cannot be separated. If someone offers
you common seed, at least get a purity test done on it. For approximately
$30.00/sample you can find out if the trefoil seed is contaminated with
weeds such as smooth bedstraw. Paying less for common pure trefoil or
mixtures one year could end up costing you more in the long run. You
may obtain a list of the laboratories that offer seed purity testing
by calling our office.
- Herbicides: In the hay field, when you identify the bedstraw
you can spot spray these clumps with Roundup or Touchdown. If the weed
infestation is too severe, you must spray the entire field prior to
plowing, with either Roundup or Touchdown @ 1.5-2.0 L/acre. For more
information consult the OMAFRA Publication 75, Guide to Weed Control,
and the label on the products.
Related Links
