Plant Profile: Erigeron canadensis

Horseweed, a winter annual belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae), typically germinates most vigorously in late autumn and early spring, although sporadic germination can happen at any time except during the summer months. This plant develops a rosette of hairy leaves and can grow upright to heights of 3 to 6 feet in the spring. Its root system consists of a taproot accompanied by some fibrous roots, which complicates removal efforts. The flowers are small, featuring white ray flowers and yellow disk flowers. It is crucial to prevent these plants from seeding in nurseries and to manage their presence around properties to avoid further spread. When hand weeding, ensure that the entire plant is removed, as they can regenerate from broken stems. Horseweed can also be effectively controlled using preemergence broadleaf herbicides.

Please note: Instances of glyphosate-resistant horseweed have been documented in regions where glyphosate-resistant crops are cultivated.