Tansy
Tansy is a noxious weed which was introduced from Europe for ornamental and medicinal uses. It has a very distinct, pungent smell and is toxic to livestock, except for sheep and goats who will eat it. It can also be toxic to humans if large quantities are consumed. It is distinguished by its fern-like leaves and small button flowers that form in clusters. This weed is often found in pastures, rangelands, cropland, gravel pits, headlands, roadsides, shelter belts, creek banks and disturbed areas.
Tansy is a creeping perennial which begins growth in the early spring, while flowering occurs from June through September. This plant grows best in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil.
Common Tansy reproduces primarily by seed. It also spreads by rhizomes, which are underground roots that run horizontally and shoot up new plants. Since livestock will not eat Common Tansy, it quickly out-competes desirable plants, especially in a pasture situation.
Control Options:
- The best control option for tansy is to stop the plant from going to seed.
- Sheep and goats control the weed before it flowers.
- Small infestations can be hand dug, although you must be careful to remove the entire rooting system to ensure that no new shoots sprout.
- It can be mowed before the plant goes to seed, but to be effective, the plants must be mown regularly (monthly) throughout the growing season.
- Many herbicides are available to control tansy. The combination of any of these management methods along with herbicide is probably your best bet to get rid of this weed.
- Check your Crop Protection Guide for herbicide advice.
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