Anybody got any tips for getting rid of thistles without using Glyphospate?
My paddock to thistle ratio is getting asymmetric to say the least.
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Discussion
I don't know the answer other than chopping them and dropping them but I would start there. Then I would test soil. The thistle is thriving because your soil needs the nutrients they can access from deep down. I have only seen them grow in over grazed pastures also, so you might also think about how to rest the pasture or better yet graze harder for a shorter period with longer rest.
Good suggestion thanks, we have 3 paddocks but the one the sheep spend the most time in is the one that has the most thistles. I'll try leaving them in the other 2 paddocks a bit longer.
Good luck. if you find something that works let me know.
Goats?
Otherwise you need to pull any sprouts you see every day for months
Goats are not an option unfortunately. We have 3 sheep who aren't doing much. Looks like I'll have to get the fork out.
Sheep helps.
Rabbits also enjoy thistles.
Consider embracing your weeds. They may provide just what the soil needs. Such as deep roots breaking up the soil and providing airflow.
Avoid tilling at all costs.
cut
water
cover with a tarp for 3 months
Interesting, I have a couple of hundred metres of ground to cover though. That's a lot of tarpaulin. This would also probably kill the grass?