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Control Recommendations for Select Ornamental Invasives

In general, control of invasive plants can be difficult and often requires the use of several methods in conjunction and year after year follow-up. However, by being persistent and using the appropriate control methods, you can help protect the unique native flora of Southcentral Alaska and avoid the vast economic harm caused by these invasive plants.

Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)
Orange Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)

Other common names: devil's paintbrush, king-devil

Orange hawkweed has become a serious problem in Southcentral Alaska. Individual plants produce hundreds of seeds, but spread mostly via lateral aboveground (stolons) and underground rhizomes. Mowing and pulling will cause the plant to spread. Very small areas can be controlled by removing all soil and hawkweed plants/roots from an area. Pulled plants should be double-bagged in heavy-duty trash bags or incinerated to avoid spread (contact your local Conservation District). Solarization, which involves covering the soil with plastic (Tu et al, 2001), is not likely to be successful in Southcentral Alaska. Temperatures within the enclosure are unlikely to reach the required heat for sterilization and seeds may remain viable for 8 years in the soil (AKEPIC, 2005). Herbicides may be the only choice for larger infestations - contact UAF cooperative extension. Whatever method used, follow-up and encourage the growth of native competitor species. By dealing with small infestations and letting others know about this invasive, you can help avoid the need for pesticide use.

Butter and Eggs (Linaria vulgaris)

Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

The Homer District is dedicated to finding effective alternatives to chemical control. If you have invasives in your lawn you may be able to control them by improving culture methods (Cox, 2003). Also, consider revegetation with native species - see the Division of Ag for seed sources.

However, if you use pesticides consult with your local Cooperative Extension office and follow label instuctions. Its the law and overapplying herbicides will not make them more effective - just dangerous!

For more information contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District.

References:
AKEPIC - Alaska Exotic Plant Information Clearinghouse. 2005. Invasive Plants of Alaska. Alaska Association of Conservation Districts Publication. Anchorage, Alaska.

Creating an Integrated Weed Management Plan. 2000. Creating an Integrated Weed Management Plan: Caring for the Land Series - Vol 4. Cox, Caroline. 2003. Taking Care of Your Lawn Without Pesticides. Journal of Pesticide Reform 23(4): 8-9

Sheley R, and Petroff J K. 1999 Biology and Management of Noxious Rangeland Weeds. Oregon State University Press.

Tu, M Hurd, M and Randall, JM. The Nature Conservancy: Weed Control Methods Handbook. 2001.

Orange hawkeed overtakes a lawn near Soldotna.