33 Types of Weeds: How to Identify and Remove Them (With Pictures)

Last Updated on July 15, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

Weeds are pesky plants that can quickly take over your garden if you’re not careful. They can be difficult to identify and remove, but with the right information, you can get the job done quickly and easily. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common types of weeds and how to get rid of them. We’ll also provide some helpful tips on preventing weed growth in the future!

Related: 43 Different Types Of Grass – Choose The Right Lawn For Your Yard

In this article

1. Asiatic Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus)

Source: MC-iris

What is Asiatic bittersweet?

Asiatic bittersweet is a vine that is native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the 1800s as an ornamental plant. This hardy plant can grow up to 50 feet (15 meters) in length and has bright green leaves. The Asiatic bittersweet vine produces small, yellow-orange fruits that contain two seeds each.

Asiatic bittersweet is considered an invasive species in North America. This plant can damage native ecosystems by growing over and strangling other plants. Asiatic bittersweet is also a threat to agriculture and forestry because it can girdle trees, which can kill them.

What does Asiatic bittersweet look like?

Asiatic bittersweet can be identified by its bright green leaves and small, yellow-orange fruits. The vine can grow up to 50 feet (15 meters) in length.

How do I remove Asiatic bittersweet?

If you have Asiatic bittersweet on your property, you should take steps to remove it. This plant can be controlled with herbicides, but it is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

You can also remove Asiatic bittersweet by cutting it down and removing the roots. If you have this plant on your property, you should take steps to control it before it spreads to other areas.

2. Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata)

Source: Michigan Sate

What is buckhorn plantain?

Buckhorn plantain is a weed that commonly grows in lawns. It is a member of the plantain family and its leaves are long, narrow, and have parallel veins.

The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and the plant can reach up to two feet tall. The flowers are small and white and grow in clusters. Buckhorn plantain is a perennial weed, which means it can grow back year after year.

How do you remove buckhorn plantain?

The best way to remove buckhorn plantain is to pull it up by the root. You can also mow over the plant, which will prevent it from growing back. If you have a large infestation of buckhorn plantain, you may need to use a herbicide.

3. Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense)

What is Canada thistle?

Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) is a perennial weed that is native to Europe and Asia. It was introduced to North America in the early 1600s and has since spread across the continent.

Canada thistle is considered one of the most troublesome weeds in agriculture due to its aggressive growth habit and ability to spread rapidly via its roots.

Canada thistle is a member of the Aster family (Asteraceae). It is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 150 cm (60 inches) in height.

The stem is erect, slender, and branched near the top. The leaves are alternate, oblong-shaped, and have serrated margins. The flowers are small, purple, and borne in clusters at the ends of the stems. The fruit is a achene that is topped with a feathery pappus.

Canada thistle reproduces exclusively by seed. A mature plant can produce up to 2000 seeds per year, which can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. The seeds are spread primarily by wind and water, but they can also be transported by animals, vehicles, and farm equipment.

Canada thistle is a problematic weed in agricultural fields, pastures, roadsides, and other disturbed areas. It invades these areas and outcompetes native vegetation for light, water, and nutrients. Canada thistle can reduce crop yields, lower pasture quality, and create hazards on roadsides.

How do you control Canada thistle?

Prevention is the best method of controlling Canada thistle. This weed should not be allowed to establish itself in new areas.

Care should be taken to clean farm equipment, vehicles, and clothing before moving them from infested to non-infested areas. Seeds can also be transported in hay, straw, and other agricultural products.

If Canada thistle has already established itself in an area, various control methods can be used to manage it. These include cultural, mechanical, biological, and chemical methods.

Cultural methods include mowing, tillage, and grazing. Mechanical methods include hand-pulling, digging, and cutting. Biological control methods include the use of insects and fungi. Chemical control methods include the use of herbicides.

The best control strategy for Canada thistle is a combination of different management techniques. Different techniques will need to be used at different times of the year in order to be effective.

4. Chickweed (Stellaria media)

What is chickweed?

Chickweed is an annual plant that typically germinates in the fall. The plant will overwinter as a rosette and then bolt (send up a flowering stalk) and produce seed in the spring. Chickweed can also reproduce vegetatively from stem fragments.

How does chickweed look?

Chickweed has small, opposite, ovate leaves that are borne on short petioles. The leaf margins are entire (smooth). Each leaf has a central vein that terminates in a point at the tip of the leaf.

The upper surface of the leaves is hairy, while the lower surface is smooth. Chickweed produces small, white flowers that have five petals and are borne in the leaf axils (the point where the leaf meets the stem).

What are the consequences of having chickweed in my lawn?

Chickweed competes with turfgrass for resources, including water, light, and space. In addition, this weed can be a host for several diseases that affect turfgrass.

How do I control chickweed in my lawn?

The best time to control chickweed is before it germinates in the fall. This can be done by applying a pre-emergent herbicide that contains dimethenamid-P or pendimethalin.

Once the plant has emerged, you can apply a post-emergent herbicide that contains glyphosate. Be sure to follow the label instructions when applying any herbicide.

5. Clover (Trifolium repens)

What is clover?

Clover is a plant in the legume family that has three leaves, which is why it is also called “Trifolium.” Clover can be found in many different colors including white, yellow, red and pink.

Clover is often considered a weed because it spreads quickly and can choke out other plants in your lawn or garden.

Clover is a very common weed in lawns and gardens. Clover has a deep taproot system that allows it to out compete other plants for water and nutrients.

Clover also has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which means it can actually improve the quality of your soil over time.

What does clover look like?

Clover leaves are arranged in a whorl (a circular shape) around the stem of the plant. Each leaf has three leaflets that are about an inch long.

The flowers of clover are small and inconspicuous, but they can be seen if you look closely. Clover flowers are generally white or pale pink, but they can also be yellow or red.

How do you get rid of clover?

If you don’t want clover in your lawn or garden, you’ll need to remove it manually. You can pull up clover plants by hand, but make sure to get the entire root system so it doesn’t come back. You can also use a hoe or trowel to dig up clover plants.

If you have a large area of clover, you may want to use a herbicide. Glyphosate is the most effective herbicide for killing clover. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the glyphosate label before using it in your lawn or garden.

6. Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)

What is common ragweed?

Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) is an annual plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, but it has been introduced to Europe and Asia. Common ragweed is a highly competitive weed that can reduce crop yields by up to 77%.

What does common ragweed look like?

Common ragweed typically grows to be between 0.91 and 16 feet tall. It has green, triangular shaped leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves have serrated edges and are covered in tiny hairs.

Common ragweed produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. These flowers produce large amounts of pollen, which is a common trigger for hay fever and other allergies.

How do I control common ragweed?

Prevention is the best method of control for common ragweed. Make sure to keep your garden clean and free of debris where the weed can seed. If you have common ragweed in your garden, hand-pulling the weed is the best method of removal.

Be sure to wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from the plant’s pollen. You can also use a hoe or trowel to dig up the weed, making sure to get as much of the root system as possible.

There are several herbicides that will effectively control common ragweed, but make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

7. Crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis)

What is crabgrass?

Crabgrass is an annual grassy weed that commonly invades lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. The plant germinates in early spring and quickly forms a low-growing rosette of leaves.

As the weather warms, crabgrass produces long, leafy stems that grow upright. At the tips of these stems, small yellow flowers appear. Once the plant goes to seed, it dies back completely.

What does crabgrass look like?

Crabgrass is a low-growing plant with light green, grass-like leaves. The leaves are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant, and they are relatively small (about ½ inch wide).

The stem of the plant can grow up to two feet tall, and it is typically covered in small yellow flowers.

How do you get rid of crabgrass?

The best way to control crabgrass is to prevent it from germinating in the first place. This can be done by maintaining a healthy lawn and keeping the grass thick and dense.

If crabgrass does appear, it can be removed by hand-pulling, hoeing, or using a chemical herbicide. Be sure to follow the directions on the herbicide label carefully to avoid damaging your lawn.

8. Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)

What is creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie is a common weed that can be found in most lawns. It is a member of the mint family and has small, round leaves that are green with purple flowers. This weed can spread quickly and can be difficult to control.

How do you identify creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie is easy to identify by its small, round leaves that are green with purple flowers. This weed can spread quickly and can be difficult to control.

How do you remove creeping Charlie?

To remove creeping Charlie, you will need to dig it up or pull it out by the roots. You can also use a herbicide, but be sure to follow the directions on the label.

9. Curly Dock (Rumex crispus)

What is curly dock?

Curly dock is a perennial weed that is part of the buckwheat family. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and has large, dark green leaves that are curved or “curled” at the edges.

The stem of the plant is also often tinged with red or purple. Curly dock flowers in late summer, producing small, greenish-brown flowers that turn into seed pods.

How to get rid of curly dock?

Curly dock is best controlled through a combination of mechanical and chemical methods. Hand-pulling can be effective, especially for small infestations.

However, because the plant has a deep taproot, complete removal can be difficult. For larger infestations, spot-treating with an herbicide containing glyphosate will provide the best results.

10. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

What is dandelion?

Dandelions are one of the most common and easily recognizable weeds. They are a member of the Asteraceae family and are native to Europe. The name dandelion comes from the French word for tooth, dent de lion, because of the shape of its leaves.

Dandelions are a perennial plant, meaning they can live for several years. They have a deep taproot, which makes them difficult to pull out of the ground.

The leaves are green and have a jagged appearance. The flowers are yellow and grow in a cluster at the end of a long stem. Dandelions reproduce by seed, and each plant can produce up to 200 seeds per year.

How to get rid of dandelion?

Dandelions are difficult to control because of their deep taproots. The best time to pull them is in the spring or fall, when the ground is moist. You can also try to dig up the plant, making sure to get as much of the root as possible.

If you have a lawn, you can use a weed killer that contains glyphosate. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label.

You can also try to prevent dandelions from growing in your yard by mowing regularly and keeping the lawn free of debris.

11. Dodder Weeds (Cuscuta campestris)

What is dodder weed?

Dodder weed is a fast-growing, parasitic plant that can be found in agricultural fields, gardens, and landscaped areas.

This weed gets its nutrients from other plants by attaching itself to their stems and sucking out the sap. Dodder weed is yellow or orange in color and has small, white flowers.

How do you get rid of dodder weed?

One way to control dodder weed is to pull it up by the roots. However, this can be difficult because the plant has a deep root system.

Another method is to use herbicides that contain the active ingredient glyphosate. Glyphosate will kill the dodder weed without harming the other plants in the area.

12. Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)

What is field bindweed?

Field bindweed is a fast-growing, deep-rooted weed that can infest gardens, lawns, and cultivated fields. The plant is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to North America.

Field bindweed is a climbing plant with slender, twining stems that can reach up to six feet in length. The leaves are arrowhead-shaped, and the flowers are white or pink and trumpet-shaped. The plant blooms from June to August.

How to get rid of field bindweed?

Field bindweed is difficult to control because of its deep roots. The best method of control is to prevent the weed from spreading by removing it before it goes to seed.

To remove field bindweed, first cut the plant down to ground level. Then, carefully dig up the roots and dispose of them in a plastic bag. Finally, apply a herbicide to the area to prevent re-growth.

13. Giant Ragweed (Ambrosia trifida)

What is giant ragweed?

Giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida) is a tall, annual weed that can grow up to 15 feet in height. It has large, deeply lobed leaves and produces small, greenish-white flowers. Giant ragweed is native to North America and can be found in every state except Hawaii.

What does giant ragweed look like?

As its name suggests, giant ragweed is a tall weed that can grow up to 15 feet in height. It has large, deeply lobed leaves and produces small, greenish-white flowers. Giant ragweed is typically found in fields, gardens, and waste areas.

Why is giant ragweed a problem?

Giant ragweed is a problem because it can out compete native plants for resources, causing them to decline. Additionally, giant ragweed produces large amounts of pollen which can cause hay fever and other respiratory allergies in people.

How do you control giant ragweed?

The best way to control giant ragweed is to prevent it from growing in the first place. This can be done by removing seeds from the area and preventing them from spreading.

If giant ragweed is already present, it can be controlled through physical removal, herbicides, or a combination of both.

14. Green Foxtail (Setaria viridis)

What is green foxtail?

Green foxtail is a common weed found in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. The plant gets its name from its long, green leaves that resemble the tail of a fox.

How to identify green foxtail

Green foxtail is an annual grass that can grow up to two feet tall. The leaves are narrow and have a pointy tip. The plant produces seeds that are green and turn brown as they mature.

How to remove green foxtail

Green foxtail can be removed by hand or with a weed eater. If the plant is large, you may need to use a shovel to dig it up. You can also use herbicides to kill the weed.

Prevention

Green foxtail can be prevented by mowing your lawn regularly and removing dead leaves and debris. You should also fertilize your lawn to keep the grass healthy and strong.

15. Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea)

Source: Iowa State University

What is ground ivy?

Ground ivy is a common weed that is found in most lawns. It is a creeping plant that has small, heart-shaped leaves and purple flowers. Ground ivy can be a problem in lawns because it can choke out other plants and grasses.

How do you remove ground ivy?

The best way to remove ground ivy is to pull it up by the roots. You can also use a herbicide that is specifically designed to kill ground ivy.

If you have ground ivy in your lawn, you should take steps to remove it as soon as possible. Otherwise, it could spread and cause serious damage to your lawn.

16. Hedge Bindweed (Convolvus arvensis)

What is hedge bindweed?

Hedge bindweed is a fast-growing, deep-rooted weed that can reach up to two metres in height. The stems are usually green or red, and the leaves are dark green and heart-shaped. The flowers are white or pink, and they bloom from June to August.

How do you get rid of hedge bindweed?

The best way to get rid of hedge bindweed is to pull it up by the roots. You can also try using a weedkiller, but this will only work if you catch the weed when it’s young. If the weed is already established, you’ll need to dig it up.

17. Horsetail Weed (Equisetum arvense)

What is horsetail weed?

Horsetail weed is a perennial plant that can grow up to three feet tall. It has thin, green stems and small, inconspicuous leaves. The plant gets its name from its resemblance to a horse’s tail.

Horsetail weed is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It was introduced to North America in the 1600s as a medicinal plant. The plant is now found in all 50 states.

Horsetail weed is a problem in gardens and lawns because it is difficult to control. The plant can spread rapidly, crowding out other plants. Horsetail weed is also difficult to remove because its roots are very tough and fibrous.

How to get rid of horsetail weed:

The best way to get rid of horsetail weed is to prevent it from growing in the first place. This can be done by keeping your garden and lawn free of debris and weeds. If horsetail weed does start to grow, pull it up immediately. Be sure to remove all of the roots so that the plant does not regrow.

If you have a large infestation of horsetail weed, you may need to use herbicides. There are several products on the market that will kill horsetail weed. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

18. Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica)

What is Japanese knotweed?

Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is a fast-growing, herbaceous perennial plant in the buckwheat family. It is native to East Asia and can be found in Japan, China, and Korea.

This weed was introduced to North America in the late 1800s as an ornamental plant. It can now be found in every province and territory in Canada.

What does Japanese knotweed look like?

Japanese knotweed has hollow, jointed stems that are green or red in colour. The leaves are heart-shaped and the flowers are white or cream-coloured.

This weed can grow up to three metres tall and spreads rapidly by sending out underground runners (rhizomes).

How do I control Japanese knotweed?

Japanese knotweed is difficult to control because of its aggressive growth habit and its ability to spread quickly. The best time to control this weed is in the spring before it flowers.

Cutting or mowing the plant will not kill it, but will help to control its spread.

Herbicides are the most effective way to control Japanese knotweed. Glyphosate-based products are the most commonly used herbicides for this weed.

19. Knapweed (Centaurea)

What is knapweed?

Knapweed is a member of the Asteraceae family and its scientific name is Centaurea. It’s an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to one meter tall.

The plant has dark green, deeply lobed leaves and small, pink or white flowers. Knapweed can be found in pastures, meadows, and roadsides throughout Europe and Asia.

How to get rid of knapweed:

The best way to get rid of knapweed is to pull it up by the roots. If the plant has already gone to seed, then you’ll need to remove the seeds from the ground as well.

You can do this by mowing or tilling the area where the plants are growing. Herbicides can also be effective, but they need to be applied carefully so that they don’t harm other plants.

20. Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)

Source: Utah State University

What is lambsquarter?

Lambsquarters is a common weed that can be found in gardens, fields, and even cracks in sidewalks.

The plant is easily identified by its green leaves which are often covered in a white powdery substance. Lambsquarters can grow up to four feet tall and produces small greenish-white flowers.

How do you control lambsquarters?

The best way to control lambsquarters is to pull it up by the roots. If the plant is already large, you may need to use a hoe or other tool to loosen the soil first.

Once the plant is removed, be sure to dispose of it so that it doesn’t regrow. You can also try using an herbicide, but be sure to follow the directions carefully so that you don’t damage other plants.

21. Nutsedge Weeds (Cyperus rotundus)

What is nutsedge weed?

Nutsedge weed is a perennial sedge that can be found in lawns, gardens, and other areas of the landscape. This weed is characterized by its long, slender leaves and nut-like seed heads. Nutsedge weed is difficult to control once it has established itself in an area.

How to remove nutsedge weed:

The best way to remove nutsedge weed is to dig it up by the roots. This can be a difficult and time-consuming task, but it is the most effective method of control. Chemical herbicides can also be used to kill nutsedge weed, but they may not be as effective in preventing regrowth.

22. Orange Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)

What is orange jewelweed?

Orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is a weed that commonly grows in gardens and lawns. It is a member of the balsam family and its flowers are typically orange or yellow. The leaves of this plant are oval-shaped and it can grow up to two feet tall.

How do you identify orange jewelweed?

Orange jewelweed is relatively easy to identify due to its bright orange flowers. However, it can be confused with other members of the balsam family such as impatiens (Impatiens spp.) and touch-me-not (Bidens alba).

If you are unsure whether a plant is orange jewelweed, you can take a cutting of the plant and bring it to a professional for identification.

How do you remove orange jewelweed?

Orange jewelweed is best removed by hand. You can dig up the plant, making sure to get all the roots, or you can pull it up. If the plant is already in bloom, you can also cut it down. Whichever method you choose, make sure to dispose of the plant properly so that it does not spread to other areas.

23. Oxalis (Oxalidaceae)

What is oxalis?

Oxalis is a weed that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. There are many different species of oxalis, but the most common one is Oxalis stricta, also known as yellow sorrel or common oxalis.

Other popular species include Oxalis corniculata (creeping woodsorrel), Oxalis violacea (violet wood sorrel), and Oxalis acetosella (redwood sorrel).

Oxalis is a perennial plant, which means it can live for more than two years. It has a small bulb that is used to store food and water.

The leaves of the plant are arranged in a rosette pattern and are usually green, but some species can have leaves that are purple or red. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they grow in clusters.

Oxalis is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, but it has been introduced to many other parts of the world. It is commonly found in gardens, parks, and lawns.

What does oxalis look like?

As mentioned above, the leaves of the plant are arranged in a rosette pattern and are usually green, but some species can have leaves that are purple or red. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they grow in clusters.

How do you get rid of oxalis?

The best way to get rid of oxalis is to pull it up by the roots. You can also use a hoe or other gardening tool to dig it up. If the plant is already established in your garden, you may need to use a herbicide to kill it.

Prevention is always the best cure when it comes to weeds, so make sure you are maintaining your garden and keeping it free of debris. If you have oxalis in your garden, make sure to remove it as soon as possible so it doesn’t have a chance to spread.

24. Pigweed (Amaranthus)

What is pigweed?

Pigweed is a common name for several plants in the amaranth family and may refer to:

Amaranthus, a genus of flowering plants native to the Americas

Chenopodium album, a fast-growing weed also known as lamb’s quarters

Portulaca oleracea, a plant in the purslane family also known as common purslane

Pigweed is a general term used for many different types of plants, but there are three main types that it usually refers to. These are amaranth, Chenopodium album, and Portulaca oleracea. Each of these plants has its own unique characteristics, but they all share one common trait: they are considered to be weeds.

Amaranth is a flowering plant that is native to the Americas. It is characterized by its red or green leaves and its small, insignificant flowers. Amaranth is often considered to be a weed because it can grow very quickly and choke out other plants.

What does pigweed look like?

Pigweed can vary in appearance depending on the specific type of plant. However, there are some common features that all pigweeds share.

Pigweeds are usually green or red in color, and they have small, insignificant flowers. They are often considered to be weeds because they can grow very quickly and choke out other plants.

How to get rid of pigweed:

The best way to get rid of pigweed is to pull it up by the roots. This can be difficult, as the roots can be very deep and strong.

However, it is important to make sure that all of the roots are removed, as pigweed can regrow from even a small piece of root.

If you cannot remove all of the roots, you can also try to kill pigweed by using a herbicide. However, be sure to read the directions carefully, as some herbicides can also kill other plants.

25. Poison Sumac (Toxicodendron Vernix)

What is poison sumac?

Poison sumac is a woody shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has glossy, green leaves and produces white berries. The plant is found in wet areas such as swamps, bogs, and marshes.

Poison sumac is one of the most toxic plants in North America. The plant’s oil contains a chemical called urushiol.

This oil can cause a severe allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin. Symptoms include itching, redness, swelling, and blistering. The reaction can be so severe that it may require hospitalization.

How to get rid of poison sumac:

If you come into contact with poison sumac, it is important to wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible. You should also remove any clothing that has come into contact with the plant. If you have a severe reaction, you may need to see a doctor.

The best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid coming into contact with the plant. If you are hiking or camping in an area where poison sumac grows, wear long pants and sleeves. Be sure to stay on trails and avoid touching any plants.

Poison sumac can be controlled by removing it from the ground. The roots should be removed to prevent regrowth. You can also apply herbicides to the plant.

26. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

What is purslane?

Purslane is a common weed that can be found in gardens and lawns. It has a small, oval-shaped leaves and produces yellow flowers.

Purslane is a member of the Portulacaceae family and is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It was introduced to North America in the early 1800s and has since become naturalized.

Purslane is a low-growing plant that spreads quickly by seed. It can be difficult to control once it becomes established in an area.

How to get rid of purslane:

The best way to control purslane is to prevent it from spreading in the first place. This can be done by removing it from your garden or lawn as soon as you see it.

27. Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens)

What is quackgrass?

Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens) is a perennial grass that is often considered a weed. It can be found in gardens, lawns, and agricultural fields. Quackgrass gets its name from its rapid growth rate and ability to spread quickly through rhizomes (underground stems).

What does quackgrass look like?

Quackgrass is a grass that can grow up to three feet tall. The leaves are green and have a white stripe down the middle. The flowers are small and brown. Quackgrass spreads through rhizomes (underground stems) that can grow up to four feet long.

How do you control quackgrass?

Quackgrass can be controlled through mechanical, chemical, and biological means.

Mechanical control involves physically removing the plant from the ground. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a trowel to dig up the plant.

Chemical control involves using herbicides to kill the plant. Glyphosate is a common herbicide that is effective against quackgrass.

Biological control involves using predators or parasites to kill the plant. Common predators of quackgrass include the common green lacewing and the lady beetle.

28. Red-Root Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus)

What is red-root pigweed?

Red-root pigweed is a common weed that can be found in gardens and fields. It is a member of the amaranth family and is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.

The plant grows to be about two feet tall and has reddish-purple stems. The leaves are Alternate, simple, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. The leaves are also hairless and have a smooth texture.

The flowers of red-root pigweed are small and greenish-white in color. They grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms from June to September.

How do you control red-root pigweed?

Red-root pigweed can be controlled through physical, chemical, and cultural methods.

Physical control involves removing the weed by hand or with a tool. This is effective for small areas where the weed is not too widespread.

Chemical control involves using herbicides to kill the weed. This method is more effective for larger areas where the weed is more widespread.

Cultural control involves using management practices that discourage the growth of the weed. This includes crop rotation, cover crops, and mulching.

29. Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

What is Shepherd’s purse?

Shepherd’s purse is a common weed that can be found in gardens, fields, and waste areas. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but has now naturalized to North America.

How does Shepherd’s purse grow?

Shepherd’s purse grows as a winter annual or biennial. The plant produces a rosette of leaves in its first year of growth. In its second year, the plant blooms and sets seed. The flowers are small and white, and the seeds are contained in slender, curved pods.

How do you control Shepherd’s purse?

Shepherd’s purse can be difficult to control once it has established itself in an area. The best method of control is to prevent the plant from going to seed.

This can be done by mowing or pulling the plants before they bloom. Herbicides may also be effective, but should be used with caution around desirable plants.

30. Smooth Brome (Bromus inermis)

What is smooth brome?

Smooth brome is a grassy weed that can be found in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. This weed is characterized by its long, thin leaves that have a blue-green color.

The flowers of smooth brome are small and inconspicuous, but they can produce a large number of seeds that can spread the weed to new areas.

How can I remove smooth brome?

The best way to remove smooth brome is to pull it up by the roots. However, this can be difficult because the roots are very tough and can easily break off.

If you are not able to pull up the entire plant, you can try using a weed killer that contains the herbicide glyphosate. Glyphosate will kill the plant, but it may also damage your lawn or garden if you are not careful.

31. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

What is stinging nettle?

Stinging nettle is a perennial flowering plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant has green leaves with serrated edges and small, white flowers. The stems and leaves of the plant are covered in tiny hairs that can sting when they come into contact with skin.

Stinging nettle is often considered a weed because it can spread quickly and crowd out other plants. The plant is also difficult to remove once it becomes established in an area.

How can you remove stinging nettle?

Stinging nettle can be removed by pulling it up from the roots or by using a weedkiller. If you are removing the plant by hand, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the sting.

32. Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea)

What is tall fescue?

Tall fescue is a perennial, cool-season bunchgrass that is widely adapted and commonly used for turf, pasture, and hay in the United States.

It is a hardy grass that can tolerate drought, heat, and heavy traffic. Tall fescue is a relatively low-maintenance grass; however, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as brown patch and dollar spot.

How can you identify tall fescue?

Tall fescue is a tufted grass that typically grows to about three feet tall. The leaves are dark green, flat, and have a sharp point at the tip. The flowers are borne in spikelets that are arranged in a dense, cylindrical inflorescence.

How to get rid of tall fescue:

If you want to get rid of tall fescue, the best method is to dig it up by the roots. You can also try smothering it with a thick layer of mulch or plastic.

Chemical herbicides, such as glyphosate, can also be effective in killing tall fescue. However, these products should be used with caution and according to the manufacturer’s directions, as they can also kill other plants.

33. Wild Madder (Galium mollugo)

What is wild madder?

Wild madder (Galium mollugo) is a common weed that can be found in gardens, fields, and roadsides.

How to identify wild madder

Wild madder can be identified by its small white flowers and square-shaped leaves. The stem and leaves of wild madder are covered in tiny hairs.

How to remove wild madder

The best way to remove wild madder is to pull it up by the roots. You can also use a weed whacker or herbicide to control this weed.

Related: 16 Weeds That Look Like Grass

Conclusion

To sum it up, there are many different types of weeds. Some are easy to identify and remove, while others can be more difficult. By knowing what to look for, you can better control the weed population in your yard or garden. With a little patience and elbow grease, you can have a beautiful lawn or garden that is free of weeds.