Jimsonweed - An Emerging Problem In Field Crops?

Traditionally, Jimsonweed has not been a concern in field crops as it has been either grown for ornamental or euphoric purposes. Consumption of the jimsonweed seed for euphoric purposes can have lethal consequences. At the very least, it causes severe illness requiring hospitalization. All parts of the plants are extremely toxic, especially the seeds.

Weed Profile - Jimsonweed

Datura stramonium L.
Annual, reproducing only by seed.
Stems: Smooth, hairless, stout and erect.
Cotyledons: Long (2-4 cm) and oval (see Figure 1)

Leaves: First true leaves are ovate and pointed (see Figure 2). Later leaves are alternate (1 per node) and sharply toothed or lobed (see Figure 3).

Flowers & Seed: White or light purple, very long and trumpet shaped. Seeds are small, black, flat and somewhat round (see Figure 4).

Special Notes: All parts of the plant are poisonous and potentially lethal if seeds are consumed.

Control Options (see below)

Herbicide Sensitivity Studies

Growth room studies were conducted in the spring of 2006 to gain a better understanding of Jimsonweed's sensitivity to common corn and soybean herbicides,. Keep in mind that weeds grown under growth room conditions are much more sensitive to herbicide applications than under field conditions. Therefore I would speculate that any herbicide that has intermediate activity on Jimsonweed would not be effective in the field.

* Herbicide were applied at the highest product rate listed in OMAFRA Publication 75, Guide to Weed Control.
** Jimsonweed was at the 4-6 leaf stage at application.

* Herbicide were applied at the highest product rate listed in OMAFRA Publication 75, Guide to Weed Control
** Jimsonweed was at the 4-6 leaf stage at application.

Summary

Numerous corn and soybean herbicides controlled Jimsonweed. For soybeans, Classic and Pinnacle may not be effective at controlling Jimsonweed under field conditions. Although Banvel and Distinct appeared to have less activity on Jimsonweed under growth room conditions, numerous extension articles in the United States list these two herbicides as being effective at controlling Jimsonweed.

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