IDENTIFICATION
Annual.
Redroot pigweed has hairy, dull green, white-veined leaves which
appear to droop on their long stalks. Inconspicuous greenish flowers grow
in dense spike-like clusters at the stem ends. The stems have dandruff-like
scales beneath the flowers. The short fleshy root is often pinkish or
red. Mature plants grow to 100 cm.
DAMAGE
One of the most common agricultural weeds, this plant infests cereals,
vegetable and berry crops, orchards, and forages, causing significant
yield reduction because of its rapid growth and large seed production.
On fertile soils, it can accumulate nitrates that can poison livestock.
This weed is a host to several pests of vegetable and ornamental crops.
It can cause allergic reactions.
HABITAT
Redroot pigweed requires disturbed, open conditions, and thrives
on fertile soils. It grows in cultivated crops, gardens, fields, roadsides,
and disturbed habitats. It is present in all agricultural regions of the
province, but is most common in the south.
SPREAD
The seeds dispersed by wind, birds, or animals. Farm and construction
machinery, vehicles, and contaminated seed can also spread seeds.
