Starthistle removal - Ask Extension
What is the best way to remove star thistles?
They are a lot of starthistles in my land . Does solarization kill the roots?
Knowledgebase
Starthistle removal #878675
Asked July 25, 2024, 3:53 AM EDT
What is the best way to remove star thistles?
They are a lot of starthistles in my land . Does solarization kill the roots?
Jackson County Oregon
Expert Response
Greetings,
The attached publication covers the history of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis L.) invasion of the Pacific Northwest and describes current infestation levels in Oregon and Washington. Provides basic information regarding yellow starthistle ecology, including descriptions of habitat, seed production, seed dispersal, germination and viability, seedlings, rosettes, and adults. Discusses yellow starthistle management strategies, including prevention, containment, and chemical, mechanical, and biological control. Includes sources for further information.
The attached publication covers the history of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis L.) invasion of the Pacific Northwest and describes current infestation levels in Oregon and Washington. Provides basic information regarding yellow starthistle ecology, including descriptions of habitat, seed production, seed dispersal, germination and viability, seedlings, rosettes, and adults. Discusses yellow starthistle management strategies, including prevention, containment, and chemical, mechanical, and biological control. Includes sources for further information.
Dear Teagan,
Thank you again for your reply.
Can I ask one more question about removing starthistles?
I placed black tarp after mowing the thisttles, for a few weeks or a month.
It looks there are no thistles growing and the ground looks very flat, without any weeds!
I would like to know if all the roots are removed by this solarization...
I would also like to know if I should keep the tarp throughout fall and winter.
If you could advise me, that'll be greatly appreciated.
Thank you very much.
Masako
PS. Is it OK to share the articles and your advise with my friends who have the same issue?
Hi, There are several variables that determine how slow or fast roots break down ( soil biome, heat, moisture). You may just want to sample some areas to see if there is any root mass left in the soil. Here is some additional information that may be helpful.
https://cesanjoaquin.ucanr.edu/?blogpost=43014&blogasset=13682
Thanks
https://cesanjoaquin.ucanr.edu/?blogpost=43014&blogasset=13682
Thanks
