Weed Control Options for Pastures

What is a weed? A pasture or hayfield “weed” is any plant that you deem as being out of place and/or a plant that is decreasing your desired forage production. Weeds may be classified in several ways including broadleaf weeds, woody plants, and undesirable grasses. Besides decreasing forage, weeds can also interfere with forage utilization, grazing distribution, etc. There are several methods available to control weeds and increase production of and access to desirable forages. The three main methods are cultural, mechanical, and chemical. The cultural method is quite simple-a thriving grass stand is an excellent form of weed control or suppression. The mechanical method is probably the most common method used and involves periodic mowing or clipping to deter weed growth. The chemical method involves the use of a herbicide and is becoming more popular in Kentucky due to the introduction of several new herbicides