Cobbler’s pegs (Bidens pilosa) are invasive broadleaf weeds that spread quickly in gardens and landscapes. Their seeds stick to clothing and animal fur, aiding their rapid distribution. Controlling cobbler’s pegs requires targeted herbicides and integrated management approaches.

This guide covers the best weed killers for cobbler’s pegs, including application tips and safety precautions. Using effective herbicides helps reduce their spread and protects valuable plants. Combining chemical and physical control enhances long-term success.

Top 10 Best Weed Killers for Cobbler’s Pegs

1. Glyphosate-Based Herbicides

Glyphosate is a non-selective systemic herbicide that kills cobbler’s pegs by translocating through the plant to the roots. It is effective on mature plants and seedlings alike. Applying during active growth maximizes control.

Popular glyphosate products include Roundup and its generic versions. Multiple treatments may be necessary for dense infestations. Care must be taken to avoid desirable plants as glyphosate kills all vegetation it contacts.

Wear protective clothing when applying. Glyphosate breaks down quickly in soil, reducing residual effects. It remains a top choice for tough weeds like cobbler’s pegs.

2. Triclopyr Herbicides

Triclopyr selectively targets broadleaf weeds such as cobbler’s pegs, sparing grasses. It moves systemically to control roots and shoots. Best applied when weeds are actively growing.

Common formulations include Garlon and other brands. Triclopyr can be applied as a foliar spray or cut-stump treatment. Protective clothing is recommended during use.

Effective for spot treatments in mixed vegetation. Repeat applications may be needed for heavy infestations. Follow label instructions closely for safety and efficacy.

3. 2,4-D Herbicides

2,4-D is a selective herbicide widely used against broadleaf weeds like cobbler’s pegs. It disrupts plant growth hormones causing uncontrolled development and death. Safe for use in lawns and pasture grasses when used properly.

Apply during early growth for best results. Avoid drift to sensitive plants nearby. Multiple treatments may be necessary for full control.

Protective gear is recommended during application. 2,4-D is economical and readily available. Follow product guidelines carefully.

4. Dicamba-Based Herbicides

Dicamba effectively controls cobbler’s pegs by mimicking natural plant hormones, causing abnormal growth. It is often combined with other herbicides for broad-spectrum control. Best applied in early growth stages.

Due to volatility, apply in calm conditions to prevent drift. Wear protective clothing during application. Dicamba enhances control of resistant weed populations.

Commonly mixed with 2,4-D for increased efficacy. Repeated treatments may be needed. Always follow label instructions.

5. Herbicide Mixtures (e.g., Triclopyr + 2,4-D)

Combining triclopyr with 2,4-D broadens control spectrum against cobbler’s pegs and other broadleaf weeds. Mixtures reduce herbicide resistance risk. They target different growth phases effectively.

Use appropriate protective gear when mixing and applying. Spot application minimizes environmental impact. Re-treatment improves control on stubborn weeds.

Follow label directions for safe and effective use. This strategy fits well into integrated weed management programs. Flexibility in timing enhances control success.

6. Manual Removal with Herbicide Follow-Up

Physical removal reduces cobbler’s pegs density but requires herbicide treatment to kill residual roots. Hand-pulling or digging is effective for small infestations. Protective gloves should be used to avoid skin irritation.

Follow-up herbicide application prevents regrowth from root fragments. Regular monitoring helps detect new plants early. This combined approach improves long-term control.

Manual removal reduces chemical use. Supports environmentally sensitive areas. Persistence is necessary for eradication.

7. Mulching and Soil Solarization

Mulching blocks sunlight and inhibits cobbler’s pegs seedling emergence. Thick organic mulch layers suppress weed growth effectively. Soil solarization uses plastic sheeting to heat soil and kill weed roots.

Non-chemical methods are good for small garden areas. Combining with herbicides enhances control. Mulching also conserves soil moisture.

Solarization requires warm, sunny conditions for several weeks. It is labor-intensive but effective. Best used as part of integrated control.

8. Pelargonic Acid-Based Herbicides

Pelargonic acid is a contact herbicide that burns foliage of cobbler’s pegs rapidly. It is considered a natural alternative suitable for organic gardeners. However, it does not kill roots and may require multiple applications.

Works best on young, tender plants. Use with systemic herbicides for complete control. Protective equipment is advised during application.

Breaks down quickly in the environment. Provides fast visible results. Combining with other methods improves effectiveness.

9. Imazapyr Herbicides

Imazapyr is a broad-spectrum systemic herbicide effective against cobbler’s pegs and other perennials. It is absorbed through roots and foliage, disrupting plant enzymes. Provides long-lasting control but requires careful use.

It can persist in soil and affect future plantings. Avoid application near desirable vegetation and water bodies. Follow all safety precautions.

Wear protective clothing during use. Suitable for large infestations. Strict adherence to label is essential.

10. Salt-Based Herbicides

Salt-based herbicides cause rapid dehydration of cobbler’s pegs foliage. Effective for spot treatment of small patches. Excessive use can degrade soil health.

Best used cautiously near desirable plants. Use protective gear during application. Salt does not kill roots, so re-treatment is necessary.

Environmental concerns limit widespread use. Used mainly as supplementary control. Combine with other methods for success.

7 Buyer’s Tips for Choosing the Best Weed Killer for Cobbler’s Pegs

• Use systemic herbicides for root control.
• Apply during active weed growth.
• Wear protective clothing during application.
• Avoid herbicide drift to other plants.
• Repeat treatments may be needed.
• Combine manual removal with chemical control.
• Follow all product label instructions carefully.

7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can glyphosate permanently kill cobbler’s pegs? Yes, but repeat applications improve effectiveness.
2. Are selective herbicides effective on cobbler’s pegs? Yes, triclopyr and 2,4-D selectively control broadleaf weeds.
3. Is manual removal alone sufficient? No, herbicide follow-up is necessary to kill roots.
4. When is the best time to apply herbicides? Early to mid-growing season for best results.
5. Are organic weed killers effective? Organic options burn foliage but don’t kill roots.
6. Can cobbler’s pegs regrow after removal? Yes, roots can regenerate without chemical treatment.
7. How to protect other plants during treatment? Use spot treatments and avoid drift carefully.

Conclusion

Managing cobbler’s pegs requires combining chemical and physical control methods for long-term success. Systemic herbicides like glyphosate, triclopyr, and 2,4-D are effective tools when applied correctly. Manual removal and mulching support herbicide treatments and reduce weed pressure. Protective measures minimize risks to desirable plants and the environment. By following these practices, gardeners can effectively control cobbler’s pegs and maintain healthy landscapes.