The mild winter weather and excellent soil moisture have resulted in rapid growth of many cool-season weeds this year in Kentucky. Weed growth is currently about three to four weeks ahead of "normal" development. This means pasture managers need to scout fields now and be prepared to initiate control tactics sooner than normal. Henbit, purple deadnettle, chickweed, and musk thistle are examples of weeds growing rapidly. Star-of-Bethlehem–a plant rarely seen this early in the year–has emerged as well and is already two to four inches tall. Consult your local Cooperative Extension Service personnel for specific identification and control options in your area.

W. W. Witt, PhD, and J. D. Green, PhD, faculty members in the department of plant & soil sciences at the University of Kentucky, provided this information.

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