Question of the Week – Pigweed

This week, the question was: What is this weed coming up in a field that was disked recently?

This is a pigweed seedling, specifically Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri). Pigweeds are some of the most aggressive weeds that farmers battle. They are able to germinate and grow quickly in poor field conditions, outcompeting crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Pigweeds also produce incredible amounts of seed (a single female palmer amaranth can produce several hundred thousand seeds). Fast growth and prolific reproduction allow pigweed to quickly develop resistance to herbicides, when relied on too heavily and not rotated properly.

This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.