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This publication is intended to provide horse owners with critical information about common toxic plants encountered in Florida. Written by Alyssa Schortinghouse and Brent Sellers, and published by the UF/IFAS Veterinary Medicine—Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department, January 2023.

This publication describes the biology and control options for fall panicum in sugarcane to assist growers, county Extension faculty, and crop consultants in making correct identification and effective management decisions to help mitigate its impact on sugarcane. Written by D. Calvin Odero and Brent Sellers, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised February 2022.

This publication provides information on the identification, biology, and management of brunswickgrass. Written by Ann Blount, Marcelo Wallau, Brent Sellers, Dennis Hancock, Leanne Dillard, Jose Dubeux, Cheryl Mackowiak, Joao Vendramini, and Clay Cooper, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised January 2022.

This publication discusses a survey used to evaluate ranch management practices to determine benchmarks in cattle production and pasture management. Written by Laura Bennett, Jonael Bosques, Sarah Bostick, Lauren Butler, Sonja Crawford, Taylor Davis, Christa Kirby, Colleen Larson, Philipe Moriel, Chris Prevatt, Brent Sellers, Maria Silveira, Aaron Stam, Bridget Stice, Joao Vendramini, and Lindsey Wiggins, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, July 2021.

This 4-page publication provides information on herbicides that can be applied for weed control in clover production systems. Written by J. A. Ferrell, B. A. Sellers, and P. Devkota, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised June 2020.

Blackberry and dewberry are often viewed simply as nuisance weeds that reduce grazing in a portion of the field. This may not seem that detrimental. However, severe financial losses can occur if cattle are injured by these growing thickets. For example, a bull's reproductive organs can be severely damaged by blackberry or dewberry thorns. Lesions or scratches from the thorns may result in infection or complete loss of reproductive performance. Lactating cows and dairy cows are not safe either. Thorns can scratch and cause infections of the udder, which may result in lower milk production. Therefore, blackberry infestations can result in monetary losses from both reduced grazing and potential animal injury. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag238 Previous version: Ferrell, J., and B. Sellers. 2005. “Blackberry and Dewberry: Biology and Control”. EDIS 2005 (8), 7/1/2005. https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/114998.

Prickly pear cactus is not a problem in every pasture in Florida, but where it is found, it is often the biggest and most difficult issue to manage. Written by Brent Sellers, Pratap Devkota, and J. Ferrell, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised July 2020. Previous version: Ferrell, Jason, and Brent Sellers. 2011. “Prickly Pear Cactus Control in Pastures”. EDIS 2011 (9). https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/119382.

This 4-page document provides an overview of smutgrass biology, control, and general recommendations. Written by Brent Sellers, Neha Rana, José Luiz C. S. Dias, and Pratap Devkota, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised October 2020. Original publication date February 2000 (Sellers, Ferrell, and Mullahey). Revised November 2009, January 2015. Revised February 2018 (Sellers, Rana, Dias, and Devkota), and October 2020 (this version) Previous versions: Sellers, Brent, Jason Ferrell, and John Mullahey. 2009. “Smutgrass Control in Perennial Grass Pastures”. EDIS 2009 (10). https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118261.

Weeds in pastures and rangeland cost ranchers in excess of $180 million annually in Florida by reducing forage yield, lowering forage quality, and causing animal injury through toxicity or specialized plant organs (thorns and spines). Effective weed management begins with a healthy pasture. Weeds are seldom a serious problem in a well-managed, vigorously growing pasture. Good pasture management involves the proper choice of the forage species and variety, an adequate fertility program, controlled grazing management, and pest management (weeds, insects, and diseases).

Whitehead broom (Spermacoce verticillata; Figure 1), also known as shrubby false buttonweed or southern larraflower, is becoming problematic in south Florida pastures, hayfields, and rights-of-way. With the first recorded herbarium specimen dating back to 1956, this plant was likely introduced to Florida during the late 1940s or early 1950s. Since this time, it has increased in range throughout central and south Florida and has become a serious problem. To date, there are few options to control this species. This 3-page fact sheet is a minor revision written by Brent Sellers, Lauren Butler, and James McWhorter, and published by the Agronomy Department, December 2019. SS-AGR-406/AG409: Biology and Management of Whitehead Broom in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Fireweed (Urtica chamaedryoides) (Figure 1) is native to Florida, but has only recently become problematic. This winter annual species is commonly observed in north and central Florida pastures, particularly in bareground areas (near feeding pens and under fences), as well as along tree lines where forage grasses are less dense. This 2-page fact sheet is a minor revision written by B. Sellers, J. Ferrell, and P. Devkota, and published by the Agronomy Department, December 2019. SS-AGR-41/AG252: Fireweed (Heartleaf Nettle) Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

If left uncontrolled, thick thistle stands can reduce grazing, result in less forage production, and ultimately, lower calf weaning weight. A single thistle plant can produce at least 4,000 seeds, increasing the chance for higher thistle populations in the pasture the following year. Consequently, management practices need to be conducted prior to flower formation for effective thistle control. Even if thistles have not infested your pasture in the past, it is ideal that your pastures are scouted in late fall through mid-spring to ensure that thistles do not get out of control. New infestations are easier to manage than large-scale populations. This 3-page fact sheet is a minor revision written by Brent Sellers, Pratap Devkota, and Jason Ferrell, and published by the Agronomy Department, November 2019. SS-AGR-95/AG253: Thistle Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Revised! SS-AGR-77, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, Jay Ferrell, J. Jeffrey Mullahey, and Pat Hogue, informs readers about this serious weed problem in perennial grass pastures and native areas of Florida. It details the weed's taxonomy, biology, ecology, chemical control, biological control and management. Includes further sources of information. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, February 2009. SS-AGR-77/UW097: Tropical Soda Apple: Biology, Ecology, and Management of a Noxious Weed in Florida (ufl.edu)

All citrus nursery stock in Florida is raised in enclosed greenhouses. It is not uncommon for weeds to grow in containers, where they compete with citrus seedlings, and on greenhouse floors, where they can harbor pests and diseases. This new 7-page publication of the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department provides descriptions of a few commonly found weeds in citrus nurseries and good weed management practices. Written by Biwek Gairhe, Ramdas Kanissery, and Brent Sellers, this article is chapter 8c of the forthcoming Citrus Nursery Production Guide. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1344

In Florida, clustered pellitory is becoming a troublesome weed for citrus, especially from the winter through early summer. Inadequate management of this weed can result in its heavy infestation in tree rows and can interrupt the spray pattern of low-volume drip irrigation systems. This new 3-page publication of the UF/IFAS Horticultural Sciences Department will assist Florida citrus growers with proper identification of clustered pellitory and with adoption of adequate and timely strategies to manage this weed in their groves. Written by Ramdas Kanissery, Biwek Gairhe, Brent Sellers, and Steve Futch. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/hs1341

The progression of trees and other woody plants into pastures, fencerows, ditch banks, rights-of-way and other areas is a common occurrence. These woody species can be particularly troublesome and require control since they will compromise fence intregrity, impede canal drainage, interfere with transmission of electricity, and some species (such as cherry trees) are highly poisonous to livestock. The aim of this publication is to detail the techniques for the removal of woody plants. This document is SS-AGR-260, one of a series of the Agronomy Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date January 2006. Reviewed November 2006. SS-AGR-260/AG245: Herbicide Application Techniques for Woody Plant Control (ufl.edu)

Glyphosate is a popular post-emergent herbicide among Florida citrus growers for its broad-spectrum of weed control under trees and vegetation management in row middles. The use of glyphosate as a ‘burn-down’ application alone, or in combination with other herbicides, is a standard practice in citrus groves. There are various glyphosate-containing product formulations available to citrus growers. Regardless of the product, the active ingredient that controls the emerged weeds is the same: i.e., glyphosate. Nevertheless, there can be lack of clarity in understanding some of the differences among various formulations of glyphosate-based herbicides. The following article is intended to help citrus growers to better understand their glyphosate products and accomplish the goal of efficacious weed control.

UF/IFAS Extension faculty and state specialists involved in the UF/IFAS South Florida Beef-Forage Program (SFBFP), in conjunction with the UF/IFAS Program Evaluation and Organizational Development unit, created a survey in 1982 that is used to evaluate ranch management practices. The survey is updated and distributed every five years to ranchers in 14 south Florida counties. Written by Sonja Crawford, Christa Kirby, Tycee Prevatt, Brent Sellers, Maria Silveira, Bridget Stice, Joao Vendramini, and Lindsey Wiggins, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department. Note: Originally published with the Digital Library Number (AG410) October 2016. Revised January 2019.

Herbicide synergy occurs when a combination of two or more herbicides works better, or the effect is more prolonged than the sum of the effects of the individual ingredients independently. Herbicide tank- mixing has often been preferred over sequential applications because they require less time, cost less than applying each herbicide individually, and usually increase the spectrum of weed control. In citrus, studies demonstrate improved weed management, when herbicides are applied in combinations. This article provides some insights into the factors that influence the efficacy and interaction of herbicide mixtures in target weeds.

Whitehead broom, also known as shrubby false buttonweed or southern larraflower, is becoming problematic in south Florida pastures, hayfields, and rights-of-way. This 2-page fact sheet discusses a few options to control this species. Written by Brent Sellers and James McWhorter, and published by the UF Agronomy Department, August 2016. SS-AGR-406/AG409: Biology and Management of Whitehead Broom in Pastures (ufl.edu)

No abstract required

This document is about Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis Raf.). This is a native perennial species found throughout the eastern half of the US. It has a large, fleshy stem with long and grass-like leaves. Spiderwort emerges in early spring, then flowers and produces seed through midsummer. This plant is problematic in grazing systems because it is largely avoided by cattle. The large, fleshy stem also makes this plant an issue in hay production. When cut with a grass forage, spiderwort does not dry at the same rate as grass and can cause spoilage when the hay is baled.

Weed management is an important component of citrus production. The selection and implementation of a weed management program can lead to both economic and environmental returns. This revised 3-page fact sheet details how to manage weeds in both young and mature groves, the differences in weed control programs between interior areas and coastal or flatwoods areas, how to control weeds after a freeze, and common ways that herbicides are misused. Written by Stephen H. Futch and Brent Sellers, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, September 2015.

With Florida citrus growers and production managers being “squeezed” between rising production prices and declining yields from citrus greening, there’s more call than ever to reduce citrus production costs. Controlling weeds is a major expense, amounting to 11% of the total $2,278 annual production cost per acre for the 2014–2015 season. This revised 3-page fact sheet teaches the six essential components of an effective weed-management program to help maintain the profitability of this vital Florida industry. Written by Stephen H. Futch and Brent Sellers, and published by the Horticultural Sciences Department, September 2015.

A recent rise in suspected horse poisonings has brought new attention to creeping indigo (Indigofera spicata), a toxic plant which has reportedly been in Florida for as long as 90 years. This new 5-page fact sheet covers plant description, signs of creeping indigo toxicity, and roles of creeping indigo’s toxins, as well as treatment and management. Written by Robert MacKay, Ed Jennings, Brent Sellers, Jason Ferrell, and Amanda House, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, August 2015. SS-AGR-395/AG399: Creeping Indigo, A Poisonous Plant of Concern in Florida Pastures (ufl.edu)

Smutgrass is a serious weed of improved perennial grass pastures, roadsides, natural areas, and waste areas in Florida. A 2003 survey found that smutgrass was second only to tropical soda apple as the most problematic weed species in Florida pastures, but now that practices to control tropical soda apple have been widely adopted in Florida, smutgrass is likely the most problematic weed species in Florida pastures today. This revised 4-page fact sheet was written by Brent Sellers, J. A. Ferrell, and N. Rana, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, January 2015. (Photo Credit: B. Sellers, UF/IFAS) SS-AGR-18/AA261: Smutgrass Control in Perennial Grass Pastures (ufl.edu)

Tropical soda apple is a prickly shrub native to South America. First reported in Glades Co., Florida in 1988, it later spread to Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It is a major problem in pastures and conservation areas. Negative impacts of tropical soda apple include reduction of cattle stocking rates, competition with native plants, and the costs associated with its control. Dense thickets of the weed also can disrupt the movement of wildlife. This 4-page fact sheet provides a summary of the major steps of the successful biological control program against tropical soda apple in Florida. The article covers the importance of the weed, identification and biology of the biological control agent, rearing and release efforts, establishment and impact, and efforts to communicate the outcomes of the program to stakeholders. Written by R. Diaz, J. Medal, K. Hibbard, A. Roda, A. Fox, S. Hight, P. Stansly, B. Sellers, J. Cuda and W. A. Overholt, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, November 2012. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in971

Southern sandbur is an annual grass that grows in pastures and cropland throughout the warm areas of the southern United States from Virginia to California. This native grass is adapted to dry, sandy soils and has a shallow, fibrous root system. It can easily invade a poorly managed field, diminishing the quality of a hay crop or grazing pasture. Southern sandbur seeds start to germinate in late spring, and germination continues through the summer and fall. Flowering occurs in late fall, and growth is consistent until the first frost. This 2-page fact sheet was written by Hunter Smith, Jason Ferrell, and Brent Sellers, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, December 2012. SS-AGR-364/AG373: Identification and Control of Southern Sandbur (Cenchrus echinatus L.) in Hayfields (ufl.edu)

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a shrubby palm species native to Florida, characterized by its 2-8 feet height, extensive underground stems, and palmate leaves. While beneficial for wildlife and human uses, saw palmetto poses significant challenges in pastures, forests, and non-cropland areas, necessitating effective control methods. Mechanical control, such as double roller-chopping, is labor-intensive and non-selective. Chemical control offers an alternative, with spot-treatment and broadcast spraying being common methods. Spot-treatments using triclopyr ester and metsulfuron, either individually or in combination, show varying degrees of effectiveness, typically requiring multiple applications. Broadcast applications similarly rely on these herbicides, emphasizing the need for adequate spray coverage and the use of adjuvants. While metsulfuron is effective against a broad range of weeds, it can harm desirable grasses like Pensacola bahiagrass, necessitating cautious application. Comprehensive control strategies often require follow-up treatments to address resprouts, highlighting the persistent nature of saw palmetto. Further detailed guidance on these methods can be found in specific EDIS publications.

Johnsongrass is a common weed throughout the South and Midwest. People often incorrectly call any weed johnsongrass, but it is one of three grasses found in Florida pastures. Knowing the differences between johnsongrass, vaseygrass, and guinea grass will help with proper weed management. This 3-page fact sheet was written by H. Smith, J. Ferrell, and B. Sellers, and published by the UF Agronomy Department, August 2012. SS-AGR-363/AG372: Identification and Control of Johnsongrass, Vaseygrass, and Guinea Grass in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Lantana is currently one of the top 10 most troublesome weeds in Florida. Although it is still sold as an ornamental, commercial varieties are sterile and considered to be non-invasive. It can quickly invade disturbed sites by producing plant toxins in its roots and stems, which either slow the growth of other plants or totally remove them. These leaf toxins are damaging to grazing animals. If animals consume the leaves, they often begin to show symptoms of skin peeling or cracking. Once animals show these symptoms, there is little or no treatment that can reverse the process. Although lantana's leaves are poisonous, its berries are not. Birds readily consume the fruit and disperse the seed. This 2-page fact sheet was written by J. Ferrell, B. Sellers, and E. Jennings, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, February 2012. SS-AGR-359/AG368: Control of Lantana in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Bracken fern is a poisonous plant common along tree lines, in forest openings, and around building borders. Animals will consume it when adequate forage is not available. Learn more in this 2-page fact sheet written by J. Ferrell, B. Sellers, and T. Wilson, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, December 2011. SS-AGR-357/AG366: Bracken Fern Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Fall panicum (Panicum dichotomiflorum) is a native grass that can be found throughout the United States in agronomic and horticultural crops, turfgrass, nurseries, landscapes, and noncrop areas. It grows well in warm wet conditions and is one of the most common grass weeds found in Florida sugarcane. This 3-page fact sheet provides sugarcane growers with guidance on its identification and control. Written by D.C. Odero, Brent Sellers, Les Baucum, and Curtis Rainbolt, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, May 2011. SS-AGR-132/SC079: Fall Panicum: Biology and Control in Sugarcane (ufl.edu)

Common ragweed is a successful pioneer species widely distributed throughout the continental United States. In cultivated fields it will compete with crops for light, moisture, nutrients, and space and will result in significant yield losses. Additionally, allergenic airborne pollen from common ragweed is a primary cause of hay fever and thus a public health concern. This 3-page fact sheet describes the life cycle of the plant and provides management recommendations. Written by D.C. Odero, B. Sellers, and J. Ferrell, and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, April 2011. SS-AGR-346/AG356: Biology and Control of Common Ragweed along Ditch and Canal Banks (ufl.edu)

Mulato II is a semi-erect perennial apomictic grass that can grow up to 9 ft tall. Brachiariagrasses, including Mulato II, are tropical warm season forages native to Africa and are the most widely grown forages in tropical South America. This revised 4-page fact sheet describes the morphology, region of adaptation and growing season in Florida, recommended production practices, and the results of research into the performance of heifers grazing Mulato. Written by J. Vendramini, B. Sellers, L.E. Sollenberger, and M. Silveira and published by the UF Department of Agronomy, March 2011. SS AGR 303/AG310: Mulato II (Brachiaria sp.) (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-334, a 3-page fact sheet by Brent Sellers and Jason Ferrell, clarifies recommendations for weed control in limpograss pastures and hayfields. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, May 2010. SS-AGR-334/AG344: Weed Management in Limpograss (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-328, a 2-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers and Ken Langeland, describes this new weed, a highly branched perennial vine, reported in late 2009 near Homestead FL, and how to identify it and what to do if you find it. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, January 2010. SS-AGR-328/AG338: Mile-A-Minute (Mikania micrantha): A New Weed in South Florida (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-231, a 7-page illustrated research report by Brent Sellers, presents a summary of rainfall, air temperature, evapotranspiration, and solar radiation for 2007 obtained at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center (REC) in Ona, Florida, and is compared to a 66-year summary of data collected from this location. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, September 2009.

SS-AGR-326, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, J. Ferrell, and Reyna Speckmann, describes the biology and control of this native evergreen shrub that, in dense infestations, can completely eliminate bahiagrass stands in pastures. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, November 2009. Reviewed December 2012. SS-AGR-326/AG336: Wax Myrtle Biology and Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-325, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, Jason Ferrell, and Reyna Speckmann, describes this clump-forming perennial plant that frequently infests low-lying areas in Florida pastures — biology, control, forage tolerance, management, and recommendations. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, November 2009. SS-AGR-325/AG335: Soft Rush (Juncus effusus) Biology and Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

Revised! SS-AGR-18, a 4-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, J. A. Ferrell, and J. J. Mullahey, describes the biology and outlines control recommendations for this serious weed of improved perennial grass pastures, roadsides, natural areas, and waste areas in Florida. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, November 2009. SS-AGR-18/AA261: Smutgrass Control in Perennial Grass Pastures (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-314, a 2-page illustrated fact sheet by Brandon Fast, Jason Ferrell, and Brent Sellers, describes this common broadleaf weed found in pastures, cultivated fields, waste areas, and roadsides throughout Florida. Includes a table detailing the efficacy of various herbicides at 2, 4, and 8 weeks, and approximate cost. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, October 2008. SS-AGR-314/AG320: Florida Pusley Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-307, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, describes this large shrub native to southern Asia and eastern Africa, and which is reported in Miami-Dade, Lee, and Glades counties — it’s identification, habitat and ecology, spread, and control. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, August 2008. SSAGR307/AG313: Biology and Control of Indian Jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana): A Weed to Watch in Florida Pastures and Natural Areas (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-303, a 4-page fact sheet by J. Vendramini, U. Inyang, B. Sellers, L.E. Sollenberger, and M. Silveira, describes the apomictic hybrid of brachiaragrass with good growing potential for Florida pastures. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, May 2008. SS AGR 303/AG310: Mulato II (Brachiaria sp.) (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-304, a 2-page illustrated fact sheet by Brent Sellers, describes biology and control of this annual or biennial member of the poppy family, also known as goatweed, Mexican thistle, prickly poppy and yellow thistle. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, May 2008. SS AGR 304/AG311: Mexican Prickly Poppy: Biology and Control (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-290, a 2-page illustrated fact sheet by Jason Ferrell, Brent Sellers, and Joseph Walter, describes this wetland plant with red rhizome and flattened leaves which can be a problem in newly established, declining, or mole-cricket damaged pastures. Includes herbicide recommendations. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, December 2007. SS AGR 290/AG295: Control of Redroot (Lachnanthes caroliniana) in Pastures (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-287, a 2-page fact sheet by Brent Sellers, Jason Ferrell, Joao Vendramini, and Yoana Newman, details techniques for chemical weed control prior to and during pasture establishment in Florida. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, October 2007. SS-AGR-287/AG290: Weed Management during Pasture Establishment (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-288, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by Jason Ferrell and Brent Sellers, describes this summer annual with sharp spines which is common in Florida pastures, especially around feeding pens and water troughs. Includes control recommendations. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, October 2007. SS-AGR-288/AG292: Spiny Amaranth (Spiny Pigweed) Control in Pastures (ufl.edu)

SS-AGR-283, a 2-page fact sheet by Brent Sellers and Jason Ferrell, describes how CleanWeave can be used to control dogfennel in Florida pastures. Published by the UF Department of Agronomy, October 2007.

Revised! ENY-826, a 3-page illustrated fact sheet by J. C. Medal, D. Gandolfo, W. Overholt, P. Stansly, A Roda, L. Osborne, K. Hibbard, R. Gaskalla, E. Burns, J. Chong, B. Sellers, S. Hight, and J. P. Cuda, describes the TSA tortoise beetle, which was released in Florida in 2003 and has been established for the control of Tropical Soda Apple in the USA. Includes references. Published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, August 2007.