I have a place in Rockport and we have a weed that is called Goathead. it is like a sticker burr only it spreads on the ground and produces larger sticker burrs.. any idea how to get rid of these?? if I spray to kill the particular plant, will that render any seeds that are on the plant non viable??



thanks

Sand burrs, stickers, goat heads... They are a pain! One good thing to come from them is the idea for Velcro!

To get rid of them, you need to improve the soil. The least expensive way to go would be to apply dry molasses at 20 lbs per 1000 square feet. If you have acreage, it is my understanding that people have had success with 5 - 10 lbs per acre. It just depends on the budget and other soil conditions.

Fall is the best time to apply 1/2" - 3/4" of good quality compost to the entire yard. It's a bit of work, but the results are amazing.

Regarding the seeds, they can be dormant for several years. Under the "right" conditions, the seeds will germinate. This is true for most, if not all seeds.

I agree with Nadine. All you have to do is start taking care of the area as if it was excellent turf and those goatheads will disappear like magic. Water at least once every week for an hour. When the grass is 4-5 inches tall, mow at your mower's highest setting (unless you have bermuda which should be mowed to 1 inch or lower). And fertilize with any organic fertilizer on all the national holidays. Goatheads will disappear and the St Augustine will dominate as long as you irrigate.