The biology and integrated management of leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) on North Dakota rangeland
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Authors: R. G. Lym
Date: 1998
Journal: Weed Technology
Volume: 12
Number: 2
Pages: 367-373
Summary of Methods: This paper is a synthesis of 45 studies examining leafy spurge biology and the integration of management methods.
Article Summary / Main Points:
• Persistent, well timed, repeated applications of herbicides will control top growth and cause a gradual decrease in the root system.
• Herbicides are most cost effective in controlling small patches of leafy spurge; while larger infestations benefit from a combination of herbicide with either a biological, cultural or mechanical control method.
• The root feeding flea beetles seem to be the most effective biological control that has been identified, though it should be integrated with another control method. Use of flea-beetles in combination with herbicides has resulted in greater control than either method alone.
• Integration of herbicides and well-timed, well-controlled, repeated goat or sheep grazing may be the most cost effective control method on large acreages, and has resulted in faster and longer control than either control method alone.
• All cultural control methods (mowing, fire, etc.) were more successful when combined with herbicide application.
• Integrated pest management (IPM) plans that include two or more control methods will result in longer term control that is most cost effective than any one single method alone.Vegetation Types: All Forest and Woodlands
MLRA Ecoregions: Not Applicable
Agrovoc Control Words: Integrated Pest Management Weeds Grazing
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Scientific Synthesis
Keywords: noxious weed, biocontrol, integrated pest management, grazing, cultural, chemical, ephes, targeted grazing
Annotation: This is a very good, comprehensive synthesis of the research surrounding Leafy Spurge control. The idea of integrating two or more control methods has been presented by Frost and Launchbaugh (2003, Rangelands 25:43-47) and DiTomaso (2000, Weed Science 48:255-265) available in the RSIS database, may be the key to winning or getting ahead in the war on weeds.
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