Weeds: Goldenrods – Solidago spp.

• Family: Asteraceae (Compositae)
• Cycle: Perennial
• Plant type: Broadleaf

Biology

Most goldenrod species spread by both seeds and by creeping root systems. They are upright plants, growing one to four feet tall or more, depending on species. The leaves are long and narrow, sometimes with toothed margins. Leaves typically have three obvious veins originating at the base of the leaf and are usually hairless or nearly so (sometimes hairy on the underside, especially along the veins). The leaves are alternate on the slender stems. Flower heads are borne at the top of the stems, typically in elongated, very distinctive clusters or “plumes” of golden yellow blossoms (some species have flat-topped clusters of flower heads). Individual flower heads are small and aster-like, with yellow ray and disk flowers. Flowering typically occurs from (approximately) July to October. The aboveground portions of the plant die back each fall, with regrowth in the spring from the perennial roots.

Habitat

Goldenrods are common along stream banks and ditches, in meadows, along roadsides, and in other sites, mostly on moist, rich soils.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• None recommended

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• Apply according to label instructions.
• Not a problem in established turf areas.
• Glyphosate products should be applied as spot treatments only!
• NOTE: Some ingredients listed here are only available in combination.
• Read the label carefully on combination products to make sure the product is suitable for your specific situation.