Safe handling of Jimsonweed - Ask Extension
I am a beginning farmers and I have some patches of Jimsonweed. I was told that they are extremely toxic and may even need to wear some type of PPE to...
Knowledgebase
Safe handling of Jimsonweed #890139
Asked November 21, 2024, 3:23 PM EST
I am a beginning farmers and I have some patches of Jimsonweed. I was told that they are extremely toxic and may even need to wear some type of PPE to handle the plant. Could you please provide information about the best safety practices when handling the plant and how to best deal with it after it has already gone to seed and hopefully before it goes to seed next time. Additionally, how should it be disposed of? I would like to avoid herbicides.
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
We recommend that you reach out to Dave Myers, the ag agent in the Prince George's County Extension office, as he has expertise in both agronomy and weed science. As a summer annual, Jimsonweed will die on its own this winter (if it hasn't already), so control can focus on preventing seedlings from germinating in spring. Removal of plant parts probably just needs to shield you from sap contact with eyes and from ingesting plant parts, but see if Dave has any particular tips for safety, debris disposal, and effective long-term management.
Miri
Miri