How to control false dandelion in horse pastures - Ask Extension
I did read the article by Melissa Fery published in June 2024. I couldn't find the Handbook she was referring to.
I'm still inclined to mow for now...
Knowledgebase
How to control false dandelion in horse pastures #876585
Asked July 09, 2024, 8:48 PM EDT
I did read the article by Melissa Fery published in June 2024. I couldn't find the Handbook she was referring to.
I'm still inclined to mow for now, and spray as suggested in the fall and/or spring. There are too many to hand-pull. We dig out our tansy, that's enough work.
If I mow the fields regularly, will the mowed/dead flowers be as dangerous to the horses? The pasture won't last much longer but they have hay available to them all the time.
If I spray, what do I spray, and how long do the horses need to stay off the pasture, and the same question, are the dead weeds as bad as the living ones for the horses?
I have about 3.5 acres in 4 pasture, and 3 horses. I can rotate the horses but all 4 pastures will need to be treated.
Thank you. Let me know if you need more information.
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
As the article mentioned, we don't have enough science-based information about how or why false dandelion seems to be a problem for some horses. Likewise it is unknown if the dried plants are also an issue. Ensuring an adequate amount of hay may reduce the risk of this weed on horses.
While it won't necessarily be helpful to the control or management of false dandelion at this time of year, you should feel free to mow your field. There several selective herbicides labeled for pastures that will kill false dandelion as well as other broad leaved weeds listed in the handbook at: https://pnwhandbooks.org/weed/pasture-rangeland/small-pastures/management-reduce-weed-problems
Each chemical's label will list grazing restrictions. If you would like to discuss specific herbicides, please contact me at the email or phone number listed below.
While it won't necessarily be helpful to the control or management of false dandelion at this time of year, you should feel free to mow your field. There several selective herbicides labeled for pastures that will kill false dandelion as well as other broad leaved weeds listed in the handbook at: https://pnwhandbooks.org/weed/pasture-rangeland/small-pastures/management-reduce-weed-problems
Each chemical's label will list grazing restrictions. If you would like to discuss specific herbicides, please contact me at the email or phone number listed below.
