Day 314: There are half a dozen different Knapweeds (pure strains and crosses), all of which are considered Class B noxious weeds in Washington. They are prolific seed-producers and can crowd out native vegetation in a very short time, reducing the amount of forage for livestock and other animals where the plants occur. There are various controls which can be used for small infestations. Pulling or digging is effective, but mowing is not, due to the fact that the roots are long-lived and will re-sprout even in the same season. Biocontrols are an option when applying chemicals is undesirable. Methods include the introduction of Knapweed beetles or shading the plants out with more vigorous native species. That said, if Knapweed appears on your property, your first priority is to prevent it from going to seed.
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