Cocklebur

How to Identify Cocklebur

Farmers can identify cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium) by observing several specific and detailed characteristics:

Seedlings:

The first leaves are broad, lance-shaped, and smooth, typically about 1-2 cm long.
The stem below the first leaves is often green and smooth.

Leaves:

Shape: Cocklebur leaves are large, broad, and triangular to heart-shaped with irregularly toothed edges.
Texture: The leaves are rough and sandpapery to the touch.
Color: They are typically a dark green color.
Arrangement: Leaves are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaf stalk (petiole) is long and can be covered with short hairs.

Stems:

Height: Cocklebur can grow up to 5 feet tall.
Texture: The stems are stout, erect, and often have a rough texture.
Color: Stems are green but may have a reddish or purplish tinge.

Flowers:

Appearance: The flowers are small, greenish, and inconspicuous, forming in clusters at the leaf axils and stem tips.
Bloom Time: Flowers typically bloom from mid-summer to early fall.

Seed Pods (Burs):

Shape: The seed pods are distinctive, spiny burs that are oval-shaped and covered with hooked spines.
Size: Each bur is about 1 inch long.
Color: Burs are green when immature and turn brown as they mature.
Seeds: Each bur contains two seeds.

Roots:

Type: Cocklebur has a taproot system.
Depth: The taproot can penetrate deeply into the soil, making mature plants difficult to pull out.

Growth Habit:

Habitat: Cocklebur thrives in disturbed soils, such as agricultural fields, roadsides, and waste areas.
Lifecycle: It is an annual plant, completing its lifecycle in one growing season.

By closely examining these characteristics, farmers can accurately identify cocklebur and implement appropriate control measures.

Geographic Impact of Cocklebur

Cocklebur is a widespread and adaptable weed that impacts a variety of crops across diverse geographic regions in the United States and Canada. Here’s a detailed overview of its geographic impact:

United States:

Midwest: Cocklebur is prevalent in the Corn Belt, affecting major crops like corn and soybeans. States such as Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio see significant infestations.
South: In the Southern states, including Texas, Georgia, and Mississippi, cocklebur impacts cotton and soybean fields. The warm climate and long growing season favor its growth.
Northeast: While less common, cocklebur can still be found in states like Pennsylvania and New York, impacting vegetable and grain crops.
West: In states like California and Arizona, cocklebur can be found in irrigated fields and along waterways, affecting crops such as vegetables and cotton.

Canada:

Ontario and Quebec: Cocklebur is found in agricultural fields, particularly affecting corn and soybean crops.
Prairie Provinces: In Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, cocklebur can be found in disturbed soils and along waterways, impacting various crops.

Timing of Cocklebur Impact

Cocklebur typically emerges in the spring when soil temperatures reach around 60-70°F, which can vary depending on the region. In the United States, this generally means cocklebur starts to impact fields from late April to early May.

The weed continues to grow and compete with crops throughout the summer, peaking in its impact during the mid to late growing season.

Key Impact Periods:

Spring Emergence: Cocklebur seedlings begin to emerge in late April to early May.
Early Growth: During the early growth stages, cocklebur competes with crops for light, nutrients, and water.
Mid to Late Season: The weed's impact peaks as it grows taller and forms dense stands, significantly affecting crop yields and complicating harvest operations.

How to Manage Cocklebur in Corn and Soybean Fields

Farmers can chemically manage cocklebur in corn and soybean fields using herbicides such as AgSaver™ Glyphosate 53.8% and Willowood Paraquat 3SL*. AgSaver™ Glyphosate 53.8% contains glyphosate, isopropylamine salt, and is labeled for use on cocklebur in corn. Willowood Paraquat 3SL* contains paraquat dichloride and is also labeled for use on cocklebur in corn. These herbicides can be effective tools in an integrated weed management strategy to control cocklebur and minimize its impact on corn yields.

Photo Credit: Jan Samanek, Phytosanitary Administration, Bugwood.org

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*Willowood Paraquat 3SL is a restricted use pesticide.

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