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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.

Orange Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum)

Butter and Eggs (Linaria vulgaris)

Common Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Other common names: common tansy, golden buttons, garden tansy, bitter buttons, hind-head, parsley-fern, ginger-plant

Tansy is a fragrant, perennial plant that spreads primarily underground from rhizomes. This noxious weed has the potential to be toxic to both wildlife and humans (AKEPIC, 2005). With care and persistance, this plant can be removed. Excavating all plant roots will stop its spread. However, resprouts from missed roots will need to be pulled or treated with a systemic herbicide such as glyphosate (creating an Integrated Weed Management Plan, 2000). Pulled plants should be double-bagged in heavy-duty trash bags or incinerated to avoid further spread (contact your local Conservation District).

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!

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.