Lawn Academy

Thistle

Thistle

Cardus Lanceolatus / Cirsium Arvense

Thistle is a biennial broad-leaf weed that is a member of the sunflower family.

Management

Professional weed control as well as pulling existing thistle from the root.

Prevention

Maintain proper cultural practices such as proper watering and mowing.

Identification

  • Bull Thistle:
    Tall spiky leaves
    Large purple flowers
    Taproot
  • Canadian Thistle:
    Lone, narrow, spiky leaves
    Purolish flowers
    Taproot

Causes

  • Germination generally occurs in fall and spring
  • Dry open soil
  • Unshaded soil