Foxtail: Let it Grow or Get Rid of it?

Understanding Foxtail: Identification, Issues, and Management

Foxtail is a common weed that can quickly become a nuisance in lawns and gardens. This article will provide comprehensive information on identifying foxtail, understanding its impacts, and managing its presence effectively.

Identification

Foxtail refers to several species of grasses in the genus Setaria. The most common types are yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila), green foxtail (Setaria viridis), and giant foxtail (Setaria faberi). Here’s a detailed look at their life stages and distinguishing characteristics:

1. Seedling Stage:

• Appearance: Foxtail seedlings emerge as small, grass-like plants. The leaves are narrow, linear, and can have a slight twist. The leaf sheaths may be smooth or slightly hairy.
• Varieties:
  • Yellow Foxtail: The seedlings of yellow foxtail have smooth leaf sheaths and leaves with a slight twist.
  • Green Foxtail: These seedlings have hairy leaf sheaths and smooth leaves.
  • Giant Foxtail: The seedlings have hairy leaf sheaths and leaves, making them appear slightly fuzzy.

1. Vegetative Stage:

• Appearance: As foxtail grows, it produces more leaves and begins to tiller (produce side shoots). The leaves are flat and can grow up to 10 inches long.
• Varieties:
  • Yellow Foxtail: The leaves are smooth with a prominent midrib. The leaf blade may have long, fine hairs near the base.
  • Green Foxtail: The leaves are smooth with no hairs, and the base of the blade can be rough to the touch.
  • Giant Foxtail: The leaves and sheaths are covered with fine hairs, giving the plant a fuzzy appearance.

1. Reproductive Stage:

• Appearance: Foxtail produces a characteristic seed head that resembles a fox’s tail. These seed heads can be up to several inches long and are densely packed with seeds.
• Varieties:
  • Yellow Foxtail: The seed head is yellowish and more compact, with bristles that can be yellow or reddish.
  • Green Foxtail: The seed head is green and less compact, with green bristles.
  • Giant Foxtail: The seed head is large, fluffy, and green, with long bristles that can turn yellowish-brown as they mature.

1. Mature Stage:

• Appearance: Mature foxtail plants can reach heights of 1 to 3 feet, depending on the species. The seed heads become more pronounced and can change color as they dry out.
• Varieties:
  • Yellow Foxtail: Mature plants are shorter, typically around 1-2 feet, with yellowish seed heads.
  • Green Foxtail: Mature plants are usually around 2 feet tall, with green seed heads that turn brown as they mature.
  • Giant Foxtail: Mature plants can reach up to 3 feet, with large, fluffy seed heads that turn brown.

Why is Foxtail Bad?

1. Competition: Foxtail competes with desirable plants and grasses for nutrients, water, and light. Its aggressive growth can crowd out beneficial plants, reducing the overall health of your lawn or garden.
2. Animal Health: The seeds of foxtail have barbed bristles that can attach to animals’ fur, potentially causing injuries if ingested or if they penetrate the skin, mouth, or digestive tract of pets, such as dogs, chickens, and ducks .
3. Seed Spread: Foxtail seeds are prolific and can spread easily, making it difficult to control once established .

Is Foxtail Good for Anything?

While foxtail is generally considered a nuisance, it does have some limited benefits:

1. Soil Erosion Control: In certain contexts, foxtail can help control soil erosion due to its extensive root system .
2. Habitat for Wildlife: Foxtail can provide habitat and food for certain wildlife species. Small mammals such as field mice and voles may use foxtail clumps for shelter. Birds, such as sparrows and finches, might feed on the seeds, especially in more natural, unmanaged areas .

Composting Foxtail

Composting foxtail is not recommended. The seeds of foxtail can survive the composting process and may spread when the compost is used, leading to further infestations .

Feeding Foxtail to Chickens and Ducks

Foxtail should not be fed to chickens or ducks. The barbed bristles on the seeds can cause injuries to their mouths, throats, and digestive systems .

How to Remove Foxtail

1. Manual Removal: Pulling or digging out foxtail plants can be effective, especially before they go to seed. Ensure you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
2. Mowing: Regular mowing can help manage foxtail by preventing it from setting seed. However, this is more of a control method than a complete removal solution.
3. Herbicides: Selective herbicides designed for grassy weeds can be used to control foxtail. Be sure to follow all label instructions and consider consulting a professional for best results .
4. Mulching: Applying a thick layer of mulch can suppress foxtail growth by blocking light and making it harder for seeds to germinate.
5. Improving Lawn Health: Maintaining a healthy lawn with proper fertilization, watering, and mowing can make it more difficult for foxtail to establish .

Sources

1. Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Foxtail Grasses: Identification and Management.” Link
2. University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Foxtail Management in Pastures and Hay Fields.” Link
3. Purdue University Weed Science. “Foxtail Biology and Management.” Link
4. North Carolina State University Extension. “Soil Erosion Control Using Grasses.” Link
5. University of Minnesota Extension. “Composting and Weed Seeds.” Link
6. University of Wisconsin-Extension. “Foxtail and Poultry Safety.” Link
7. Penn State Extension. “Managing Foxtail in Turfgrass.” Link
8. University of Illinois Extension. “Lawn Care Best Practices.” Link

By understanding foxtail and employing effective management strategies, you can maintain a healthy and attractive landscape. If you have further questions or need professional assistance, feel free to contact us at Colin Can Help.

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