Tumbleweed Russian Thistle

Russian thistle

Nearly every resident and visitor to Arizona has seen a tumbleweed or two blowing across the desert. Tumbleweeds actually come from the Russian Thistle plant. The tumbleweeds break off of the plant at ground level and spread seeds as they move across the land. A single plant can produce 200,000 seeds in its lifetime, ensuring this Russian native will have ample opportunity to take over the local landscape. Preventing seeding and pulling these plants when they are young will help control their growth. Pre- and post emergents are recommended for treatment of areas overrun with Russian thistle.