Pasture plant - ragweed

Ragweeds are flowering plants in the genus Ambrosia in the aster family, Asteraceae. Ragweeds are erect, single stemmed, summer annual weeds primarily found in pastures, hayfields, right-of-ways, timberlines, and roadsides. Several species have been introduced to our region, some have naturalized, and many have become invasive species over time. These plants can cause allergy sufferers major problems (Hay Fever) during the summer and fall times of the year. Ragweed, depending on which one it is, can germinate and grow through the entire summer months as well as late into the fall. Pastures which are overgrazed, thin, low in fertility, and abused will most likely contain Common and Lance Leaf Ragweed. Giant Ragweed prefers a more fertile soil to grow. Ragweed seeds are often brought to and spread on the farm through low quality/cheap hay, which was put up to late in the year.