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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)

Other common names: common toadflax, wild snapdragon

Toadflax, often sold ornamentally as "butter and eggs", is considered a noxious weed by 9 Western States and has been introduced into 49 US States. If caught early, the potential for successful removal is relatively high. Cutting, mowing and tilling can be effective. Pulling can also be effective but works best in coarse soils, and may have to be monitored for resprouting for as long as 10 years (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). Herbicides may also be somewhat effective but the waxy leaves are a barrier to adsorption of foliar herbicides (Sheley and Petroff, 1999) If used, they should be applied during flowering but prior to seed set, but additional measures are essential (Murray & Carpenter, 1998). Planting of native grasses to is reported to decrease toadflax populations over time.

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!

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.

Bags of invasive plants, pulled by Homer District volunteers, waiting to be incinerated.