New weed and pest publications available from MSU Extension

From MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University Extension has three new, free publications available about weeds and pests in Montana.

“Narrowleaf Hawksbeard: Identification, Biology and Integrated Management” is a four-page MontGuide, or factsheet, written by Shelley Mills, Jane Mangold and Tim Seipel. The authors note this adaptable and difficult-to-control weed is present in north central and northeastern Montana, northwestern North Dakota and in parts of Canada. It can be a problem in reduced and no-till fields, rangeland, land in the Conservation Reserve Program, along roadsides and in other disturbed areas. Narrowleaf hawksbeard can reduce crop yields and forage quality due to competition and low palatability.

“Scotch Broom: Identification, Biology and Integrated Management” is an eight-page MontGuide by Noelle Orloff and Mangold. Scotch broom is a shrub on Montana’s noxious weed list. It can be recognized by its bright yellow flowers, clover-like leaves and green, woody stems. Scotch broom is found in disturbed sites, pastures, roadsides and open woods. Control is difficult once this species becomes established, with repeated treatments often required. Scotch broom currently has limited distribution in Montana, so prevention and early detection are key to its management, the authors say.

“Codling Moth Management in Commercial Apple and Pear Orchards” is a 32-page, full-color booklet which describes the codling moth, an insect pest of apple, pear, quince and walnut. The booklet includes models for monitoring of codling moths and multiple conventional and organic management methods and products for commercial apple and pear growers. The booklet was written by Rebecca Richter, Rachel Leisso, Katrina Mendrey and Zach Miller. Printed copies of the booklet are limited to one per person.

These publications are available for download or in print from store.msuextension.org or by calling the MSU Extension Distribution Center at 406-994-3273.

MSU Extension provides Montana citizens with unbiased, research-based education and information to strengthen the social, economic and environmental well-being of individuals, families and communities. More information is available at http://msuextension.org .