Vegetation Solutions – Wild Parsnip

Wild chervil (Anthriscus sylvestris), also referred to as wild parsley or cow parsley, is a troublesome weed that has successfully invaded roadsides, ditches, pastures, forest edges and dykes in various areas throughout North America. It prefers disturbed sites with rich, moist soils and can persist under partial shade.

Native to Europe, wild chervil was introduced to North America in wildflower seed mixes. In Canada, wild chervil can be found on the west coast of British Columbia, Ontario and the east coast of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, New Brunswick and Quebec.

Post-emergent solutions

Applying Navius^® FLEX to small parsnip plants – preferably when they are 10–15 cm tall – can improve control of established wild parsnip seedlings and rosettes. Additionally, Navius FLEX can be used in preventing the emergence of new seedlings. If parsnip plants are taller than 15 cm, effective control requires complete spray coverage of the foliage. Use application equipment that gives the best coverage of all parsnip plants while minimizing spray drift. Remember, taller plants, railroad ties, guardrails, and other obstacles can shield or shadow smaller plants and limit contact with shorter parsnip plants. Since dense stands have seedlings and rosettes among the flowering plants, it may take a few years to get total control.

Persistent application period

For long-term control of this problem weed, two to three years of successful annual control in spring and/or fall may be necessary. After control, the establishment of competitive cover is important to prevent new infestations.

Cleaning equipment after herbicide application to a site, mowing, ditching, or any other work on infested sites will help to prevent linear spread down rights-of-way.

No matter what kind of vegetation management problems you’re up against, Envu has a full range of solutions to help you take control.

For more information about wild parsnip, download the solution sheet or contact your local Territory Sales Manager for wild parsnip control strategies specific to your needs.

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