-Mow the plants when stalks are elongating but before flowering. This will help reduce additional seed production. Mowing too early in the growing season often results in the plants re-growing. Mowing late in the season may improve the aesthetics in the field, but seed is likely viable for germination.

-Hand pulling or digging is also an option as the root system of this annual plant is not robust. However, if you have a large infestation this may not be feasible.

-Herbicide
2,4-D products work on coastal tarweed spp, but not when it is fully mature and/or dried out. Apply herbicide while the tarweed is actively growing with a non-ionic surfactant. Application rates will explained on the label of the herbicide you purchase. Madia sativa will not likely be listed on the label directly because it is not considered a weed, it’s a native that can be invasive in historically overgrazed pastures or disturbed sites.  

Spring applications to young plants is the best timing for herbicide applications if you choose that tool. If your soils moderately to poorly drained in the spring, perhaps aim for June or as soon as you can get out there without compacting the soil. A fall application will get some of the plants but expect more to germinate in spring.

- Desirable plant competition
Typically, tarweed establishes in areas of disturbed soils, including overgrazed pastures, fields that have been left fallow, or areas that have been heavily compacted. If at all possible, prepare the soil and seed plants that will cover the soil and provide competition to tarweed seedlings in the spring. Pasture grasses or a fall cover crop (if used for annual production) work well.  Introduction to Pasture and Grazing Management  -includes sections on weed control and pasture renovation. Managing Small Acreage Horse Farms in Western Oregon is also a good resource.