Part one: Toxic Weeds. Know your Enemies!

It is important to be aware of a variety of common toxic weeds that can be found in our surroundings. Among the most prevalent in the Sandhills region are annual buttercup, pigweed and wild parsnip. These plants may seem harmless, but they can cause serious health issues if ingested or even touched.

Annual buttercup, for example, contains a toxic compound called protoanemonin that can cause blisters and irritation on the skin. And Pigweed can cause respiratory problems and even kidney damage if consumed in large quantities. To avoid these toxic weeds, let’s educate ourselves on what these weeds look like and where they commonly grow.

Wild Parsnip:

Did you know there is a plant that looks almost identical to carrots but can be extremely dangerous? Wild parsnip, also known as Pastinaca sativa, is a common weed that can be found in fields, along roadsides and in other open areas. At first glance, wild parsnip can easily be mistaken for a harmless carrot plant. However, its sap contains a chemical called psoralen, which can cause severe skin irritation and even burns when exposed to sunlight. This condition, known as Phyto photodermatitis, can result in painful blisters, rashes and discoloration of the skin that can last for weeks or even months. The plant typically grows to be about two to five feet tall, with yellow-green flowers that bloom in the summer. Its leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 12-inches long.

Pigweed:

A common plant found in dead patches of grass is called pigweed, scientifically known as Amaranthus retroflexus. Pigweed can be easily spotted growing in areas

Tom Shea

Extension Agent, Agriculture - Livestock, Field Crops, Moore County. Tom comes from a background in small ruminants and beef cattle focusing on pasture management and sustainability. He is also an avid horseman, specializing in moving livestock on horseback and practices roping .

where hay is fed as well. Despite its unassuming appearance, pigweed is a resilient plant that has adapted to thrive in various environments. This plant is commonly found in North America and is known for its ability to grow rapidly. It grows from late winter through the summer and produces a large number of seeds. Pigweed accumulates high levels of nitrates, and when ingested, can alter the horse’s potassium levels, leading to kidney failure and possible death.

Clover:

address them as quickly as possible. The good news, however, is that horses typically recover within 24 to 48 hours after the infected clover has been removed. So, if you suspect that your horse has been munching on some bad clover, don’t panic, just take action and remove the source of the problem.

Clover is found in North Carolina pastures and fields and can fall victim to a fungal disease known as blackpatch. This disease not only affects the clover itself, but it can also have serious consequences for horses that graze on it. Blackpatch infects legumes in humid or wet conditions over 80F. The fungus that causes the blackpatch is Rhizoctonia leguminicola. Clover infected with Rhizoctonia leguminicola produces a mycotoxin called slaframine. Excess salivation is one of the most notable symptoms of slaframine toxicosis in horses. A horse may be suffering from blackpatch if seen struggling to swallow excessive saliva, frequently urinating, and having diarrhea and lacrimation. These symptoms can be quite distressing for the animal and can impact its overall health and well-being. As such, horse owners need to be aware of these potential issues and take steps to

Annual Buttercup:

gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. What many people don’t realize, however, is that this beautiful plant is toxic. The toxicity of the annual buttercup is due to the presence of a chemical compound called ranunculin. When the plant is crushed or chewed, ranunculin is converted into a toxic substance called protoanemonin. If ingested, this substance can cause skin irritation, blistering and even gastrointestinal distress. So, what can you do to manage this problem? According to experts, the best way to deal with annual buttercups is through pasture management and herbicide application. By implementing good grazing practices, such as rotational grazing and proper stocking rates, you can help prevent the spread of this weed and encourage the growth of desirable forage species.

This invasive plant can quickly take over your pastures and fields, reducing the quality of your forage and potentially harming your livestock. With its bright, yellow petals and delicate appearance, it is no wonder this flower is a favorite among

Additionally, selective herbicide application can be an effective tool for controlling annual buttercup and other invasive plants. It is important to note that while herbicides can be a useful tool, they should be used judiciously and according to label instructions. Always consult a licensed pesticide applicator or extension agent before applying herbicide to your pastures or fields. By proactively managing annual buttercup, you can help ensure the health of your land and your horses.