New pictorial guide aids in Palmer amaranth and tall waterhemp identification

by Phyllis Bongard and Jeff Gunsolus

With the recent confirmation of Palmer amaranth in Minnesota, it is critical to identify this noxious weed, so it can be eradicated before it becomes widespread. A new pictorial guide compares key characteristics of Palmer amaranth and tall waterhemp at several growth stages throughout the growing season to aid in this identification.

The new guide, “Comparing Palmer Amaranth and Tall Waterhemp – Growth and Development” can be found at http://z.umn.edu/PalmerID. Detailed descriptions also accompany the photos. To access the notes, open the file in Adobe, click on “View,” scroll to “Comment,” then select “Annotations.”

Identification will be the key in reducing further infestation in Minnesota. For other articles on Palmer amaranth, see Palmer amaranth in Minnesota: Reporting, preventing further infestation and reporting, Check pollinator plantings for Palmer amaranth, and Palmer amaranth: A new weed threat to watch out for.