Q&A – How can pigweed seeds be
eliminated from manure?
Question:
When using livestock manure for fertilizer, specifically cow manure, how can the pigweed be eliminated?
Answer:
TSU Extension Agent Joellen Dimond says heat will kill pigweed seeds. To do that you need to compost the seeds. In the compost pile if the seed is heated to 140 degrees for 1.1 hours, or 120 degrees for three days it will die. When you are composting you need to make sure your carbon and nitrogen ratios are correct, there is enough moisture, there is oxygen, and the pH is correct. A temperature probe will also be helpful to see if the center of the pile is getting warm enough to kill the pigweed.
Related Resources:
Composting to Kill Weed Seeds
Weed Profile: Pigweeds (Amaranthus spp.)
Herbicide Recommendations for Noxious Pigweeds
When using livestock manure for fertilizer, specifically cow manure, how can the pigweed be eliminated?
Answer:
TSU Extension Agent Joellen Dimond says heat will kill pigweed seeds. To do that you need to compost the seeds. In the compost pile if the seed is heated to 140 degrees for 1.1 hours, or 120 degrees for three days it will die. When you are composting you need to make sure your carbon and nitrogen ratios are correct, there is enough moisture, there is oxygen, and the pH is correct. A temperature probe will also be helpful to see if the center of the pile is getting warm enough to kill the pigweed.
Related Resources:
Composting to Kill Weed Seeds
Weed Profile: Pigweeds (Amaranthus spp.)
Herbicide Recommendations for Noxious Pigweeds