There’s some interesting activity afoot in the cropfields and pastures of Colorado, Utah and Montana, as researchers explore a new biocontrol method for Canada thistle, by delicately sprinkling, hand-tossing or even using a leaf blower to spread a coarse powder over the weeds. That powder, Puccinia punctiformis, or Canada thistle rust fungus, is a promising weapon against the invasive weed, straight from Mother Nature’s own arsenal. Researchers are working to learn how well the naturally occurring fungus controls Canada thistle when applied alone or when paired with other weed management tactics.
Fungus aids Canada-thistle fight
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Teliospores of the Puccinia punctiformis fungus are on Canada thistle plants in the late summer and fall.
Canada thistle has an extensive root system.
Canada thistle rust fungus has a complex life cycle.
Finding the fungal patches in the spring is key.
Apply Canada thistle rust fungus directly to a small Canada-thistle plant.
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