Throughout the state of Texas there are few weeds as recognizable as dallis grass and dandelions. However, there is one that makes its appearance alongside these two weeds. Often confused with its close relative, the dandelion, the Texas sow thistle is an herbaceous perennial weed native to the Southwestern United States. It is a member of the dandelion family and is similar in appearance, with yellow flowers and spiny, lobed leaves. Texas sow thistle is often found in cultivated fields, roadsides, and other disturbed areas and is considered a weed due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete desirable plants. The weed can be controlled through a combination of cultural practices, such as mowing, hand-pulling, and herbicides, but it may require repeated efforts to effectively manage it.

Even though it is possible to pull these weeds from the ground, that can quickly become an overwhelming endeavor. These plants are often covered in a rough texture caused by a furry stalk and spikey leaves that will have you searching for the nearest pair of garden gloves. The root of this weed is a very stubborn and resilient to its surroundings if it manages to grow, much like its smaller relative, the dandelion. These weeds tend to grow in warmer temperatures. This weed can grow to huge proportions. Its thick stalk will be able to support its weight up until it reaches any where between 2 to 6 feet in height.

This weed loves the warmer temperatures of our lovely state, with it being a native plant, it is quiet hardy and drought tolerant. This is a warm season weed that grows from spring to fall. In the Southern United States, it typically grows from March to November. Generally thriving in 86-degree weather.  The plant germinates in the spring, produces leaves and stems through the summer, and will begin spreading seeds in the fall. During the winter, the plant dies back to its root system, but new growth will occur the following spring.

These weeds also have very beneficial health properties as many have been refined and put to use in our medicines. Nowadays in our modern busy world these weeds are best left out in a field happily serving our pollinator friends. Should they invade our lawns they can be a headache to get rid of.

So, contact Safe Earth Pest Control and let us eliminate the headache of these weeds for you. 214-321-2847