Invasive Weeds

Throughout the United States, there’s a fine line between protected wildflowers and noxious weeds. Wildflowers help balance an area’s ecosystem, which includes living things from the microscopic to the “bigger than your house.”
On the other end of the spectrum are invasive species of weeds that fall in the category of noxious weeds. At their best, noxious weeds are fast-growing, often flowering, plants that can be easily pulled up by vigilant home gardeners. At their worst, Colorado weeds are toxic (think poison ivy) or even harmful, taking over acres of habitat and choking other plants out of existence.

 Colorado Noxious Weeds

Colorado has nearly 100 entries on its noxious weed list. Every weed on the list is targeted for eradicated (that is, if you see them on your property, get rid of them). But some have “been determined to pose a potential threat to the agricultural productivity and environmental values of the lands of the state,” by the Colorado Department of Agriculture. That’s the agricultural equivalent of DEFCON 3.
According to the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension, now is an optimum time to take care of Colorado weeds on your property, especially if mowing and hand pulling are your methods of choice. Most noxious weeds haven’t gone to seed yet, so you won’t literally be sowing bad seeds if you mow or pull.
Most Colorado weeds move to their next growth phase in response to changes in daylight. If a noxious weed has visibly gone to seed or foliage is changing color, herbicides may be a better option for weed control. Some plants have their own “internal autumn,” which can be a good time to apply herbicide, especially to perennial weeds (weeds that don’t need to re-seed to come back).
Professional treatment of Colorado weeds on your property can increase the likelihood of eradication, as well as ensure safe application of herbicides. Contact SprayTech, Colorado commercial and residential weed-spraying specialists, at 720-248-000, if you suspect an infestation of noxious weeds on your property.