One if the major issues I now need to address on our new property is a large scale Russian Knapweed problem. Unlike Cheatgrass, I can't find a large scale non-chemical solution. The weed control person basically said spraying is the only option given this level of infestation and then we can swap to biological controls afterwards (I had already expressed a long term organic desire). Does anyone have experience dealing with this plant on a large scale?
Not sure what you're setup looks like, but goats LOVE knapweed. They eat every part of the plant in every stage. And, at least in our climate/ecosystem, the goats prioritize the knapweed over most other plants growing naturally here. Turning them loose on it when it's just starting to form buds and flower really kicks the plants in the teeth for seed production.
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