| Weeds: Little western bittercress (Shotweed): Cardamine oligosperma |
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Use IPM (Integrated Pest Management) for most successful weed management. |
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Family: Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) Cycle: Winter annual Plant Type: Broadleaf |
Biology
Description: Little bittercress is a fall/winter-germinating annual species growing to less than five inches tall. Leaves are compound with one large terminal leaflet and several pairs of smaller lateral leaflets. Each leaflet is smooth and circular to slightly heart-shaped in outline. Leaves initially form a flat rosette, followed by a flower stem ranging from 2 inches to a foot tall. Little bittercress blooms in early spring only, typically mid-March to mid-April. Its flowers are tiny and white, borne at the top of the plant. Fruits are slender, thin, and one to two inches long. When mature pods are touched, they split apart explosively, giving rise to the common name "shotweed."
Habitat: Little bittercress is commonly found west of the Cascades in yards, gardens, roadsides, waste areas, and perennial plantings. It is native to Europe, and has become a serious problem in the nursery industry.
Management Options
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Seeds remain viable in the soil for several years. Preventing seed production is crucial for effective control. Apply according to label instructions. Glyphosate and glufosinate products are used as spot treatments only! NOTE: Some ingredients listed here are only available in combination. Read the label carefully on combination products to make sure the product is suitable for your specific situation.
| Landscape Areas | Turf Areas | Bare Ground Areas |
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