field dodder

We have recently received several samples of field dodder. Field Dodder is an unusual parasitic pest. It germinates from seed each year and looks for a host plant. If it finds one it attaches uitself to the vascular system of the host and uses the nutrients of the host to grow.

dodder picture courtesy of Colorado State University extension

The best control is to remove any plants infested as soon as they are seen. Treflan is a pre-emergent that can help with dodder control. It takes 5 or more years for it to quit appearing if you keep it from reseeding.