Broadleaf Dock

Scientific Name: Rumex obtusifolius

Other Names: Bitter Dock, Bluntleaf Dock, Indian Tobacco

Leaf Type: Broadleaf

Flowers: Small, greenish flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. Arranged in tall, thin stalks that can reach up to 3 ft in height. The plant can sometimes produce reddish or pinkish tints on its stems and leaves which may give the impression of the flowers being reddish or pinkish.

Leaves: Large oval or lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. They are typically green in color but may develop a reddish or brownish tinge as they mature. The leaf edges are often slightly curled or wavy, and the base may be slightly heart-shaped or rounded.

Life Cycle: Perennial

DESCRIPTION

Broadleaf Dock is a type of weed that can grow up to 5ft tall. The plant is commonly found along roadsides, in fields, and gardens. It is considered invasive in some regions and is generally considered a nuissance plant because of its ability to quickly spread and compete with other plants for nutrients and resources.

HOW TO IDENTIFY

The leaves are the most distinctive feature of this plant. Look for large, oval or lance-shaped leaves with a slight curl or wave on the edges. Stems will be stiff and upright and will shoot up from the leafy base.

Mechanical Control Recommendations

Hand pulling
For small infestations or in sensitive areas where chemical use is not preferred, hand-pulling can be effective. Make sure to remove the entire plant, including the taproot, to prevent regrowth.
Digging
In cases of more established plants, digging can be used to remove the deep taproot. Use a shovel or a digging tool to carefully dig out the entire plant and root system.
Mowing
Frequent mowing can help prevent the formation of seed heads and reduce the spread of Broadleaf Dock. However, this method alone may not eliminate the plant, as it can regrow from the root system.
Cutting Back and Bagging
If you can't remove the entire plant, cutting back the flower heads and seed pods before they mature can help prevent the weed from spreading. Bag and dispose of the cuttings to prevent seed dispersal.
Smothering
You can use mulch or heavy layers of organic material to smother Broadleaf Dock. This method deprives the weed of sunlight and reduces its ability to grow and spread.
Cultivation
Repeatedly cultivating the area where Broadleaf Dock is growing can help weaken the plants and make them easier to remove. Be cautious not to disturb the soil too much, as this can promote the germination of more weed seeds.
Solarization
In areas with intense sunlight, covering the infested area with clear plastic can heat the soil, killing seeds and young plants. This method works best during hot summer months.

Pre-emergent herbicides:

Glyphosate: Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum non-selective herbicide 2,4-D: This is a selective broadleaf herbicide Dicamba: Dicamba is another selective broadleaf herbicide Triclopyr: Triclopyr is effective against a wide range of broadleaf weeds Metsulfuron-methyl: This herbicide is often used for controlling broadleaf weeds and some grasses in turfgrass and non-crop areas Fluroxypyr: Fluroxypyr is known for its effectiveness against many broadleaf weeds Clopyralid: Clopyralid is effective on certain broadleaf weeds

Post-emergent herbicides:

Glyphosate: Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum non-selective herbicide 2,4-D: This is a selective broadleaf herbicide Dicamba: Dicamba is another selective broadleaf herbicide Triclopyr: Triclopyr is effective against a wide range of broadleaf weeds Metsulfuron-methyl: This herbicide is often used for controlling broadleaf weeds and some grasses in turfgrass and non-crop areas Fluroxypyr: Fluroxypyr is known for its effectiveness against many broadleaf weeds Clopyralid: Clopyralid is effective on certain broadleaf weeds

Selective herbicides:

2,4-D: 2,4-D is a commonly used selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including Rumex obtusifolius Dicamba: Dicamba is another selective herbicide effective against broadleaf weeds Clopyralid: Clopyralid is known for its selectivity against broadleaf weeds while sparing grasses Triclopyr: Triclopyr is effective against many broadleaf weeds, including woody plants Fluroxypyr: Fluroxypyr is effective against a range of broadleaf weeds and is used in various settings, including lawns, turf, and non-crop areas Metsulfuron-methyl: While it’s primarily used as a post-emergent herbicide, metsulfuron-methyl can have selective activity against certain broadleaf weeds and grasses

Non-Selective herbicides:

Glyphosate: Glyphosate is one of the most commonly used non-selective herbicides Glufosinate: Glufosinate is another non-selective herbicide that can control a variety of weeds, including broad-leaved dock Diquat: Diquat is a contact herbicide that works quickly to desiccate and kill plant tissues on contact Pelargonic Acid: Pelargonic acid-based herbicides are contact herbicides derived from fatty acids. They work by breaking down the cell walls of plants on contact

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