scotchbroom - Knowledgebase Question

belfair, Wa
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Question by kelvinstancy
February 25, 2009
I have a HUGE problem with scotchbroom. I bought some property in Belfair, WA. about 3 yrs. ago and most of the land was covered with scotchbroom. I have been cutting and pulling them out by the roots. Even though I have been making some headway, some of it keeps coming back. Is there something that is easier to get rid of this stuff?


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Answer from NGA
February 25, 2009
Scotch Broom is a class B noxious weed in Washington. According to the Weed Control Board, the seeds remain viable for up to 80 years! So, even though you are getting rid of the plants, the seeds are obviously still in the soil. The Weed Control board cautions that because of lengthy time of seed viability, as well as large seed production, control methods must be repeated for several years.

Here's what they suggest for control:
Cultural: Cultivation and establishing competitive pasture species, forest trees or other crops helps resist Scotch broom invasion as well as other weeds.

Herbicide: Please contact your county noxious weed coordinator. (Pat Grover
(360)427-9670 Ext. 592 or e-mail [email protected])


Mechanical: Hand pulling, digging may be an option for small infestations. Chopping, Cutting or Mowing ? an option for flat areas. Cutting is recommended before herbicide application.

Biological: Goats are a cost effective control method for Scotch broom.

Best wishes with your scotch broom eradication!

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