Some species of thistles will have spikes or hairs on the rosettes, and others will be smooth.
If the fire starts to spread to unwanted areas, put it out with your water pumper and fire suppression tools such as a fire extinguisher. Controlled fires can cause serious damage if they spread and get out of control. For a checklist you can use to safely conduct a controlled burn, visit: https://extensionpublications. unl. edu/assets/pdf/ec121. pdf.
Please note: The WHO considers glyphosate to be a probable human carcinogen. Its use is prohibited in some states and countries. Please check with your local laws and use caution if handling this chemical. You can find these herbicides at your local garden or factory supply store. You can also order them online. Mix the herbicide according to the directions on the packaging and use a hand or pump sprayer to apply it directly to the thistles.
Catching the thistles before they have a chance to flower will help keep them from spreading any further.
You can also mow a pasture that’s been overrun with thistles and then apply an herbicide to help fully eradicate them.
If you have Canada thistle, which you can identify by its tall stem, barbed leaves, and small, purple flower heads, digging it out with a shovel may not be enough to eradicate it. The small bits of roots may regenerate and grow into new plants. You’ll need to apply an herbicide as well.
Sometimes, cattle can eat the tasty grass around weeds, which can allow the weeds to get more sunlight and nutrients and actually make your problem worse. Goats can also graze on weeds. [11] X Expert Source Ben BarkanGarden & Landscape Designer Expert Interview. 14 April 2020.
