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Important Notice Concerning Eradication
of a Noxious Weed in Taos Ski Valley
An invasive weed called Canadian Thistle is propagating rapidly in Taos
Ski Valley. This short-lived perennial will spread considerably if
not controlled, and could damage the flora of the valley.
According to Rey Torres, the County Extension Agent, persistence is the
key in eradicating Canadian Thistle. It is best to attack the weed
while it is still young. By the time the purple flower of the
thistle appears, the root system of this plant is already established
and can be 6 feet deep. Since the depth of the roots makes it
difficult to dig up, the homeowner should either cut or mow down the
plant to starve the root system and then remove the plant from their
premises. If cut at the base of the stalk, the plant will shoot
nodes producing a new stalk. After a period of cutting back the
plant, it will eventually die off. It is during the plant's second
year of growth that a rose head and seed stalk will start to
appear. While the flower is still purple, the flower matures and
creates white seeds which spread the growth of the plant.
Chemical control can be used. Water the weed first, and then two
days later spray with a solution of either Round Up or 2,4-D (like Weed
Be Gone). The pre-mixed store bought solutions should not be used,
rather a concentrate which can then be mixed to 2 Tablespoons
concentrate to 1 gallon of water. Spot spray the weed as
much as possible, and try to get it at a young age. It is best to
try spraying in the springtime and removing the plant. After
several rounds of spraying and removing, the root system will be starved
and the plant should not reappear.Here are some pictures of the Canadian Thistle for your
information:
 
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