Can I send pictures as an attachment somehow? Cannot seem to copy and paste or snippy to form.

Reporter
March 20, 2013, 1:28 p.m.

April 4, 2013

Ms. Barbara Ledbury,

I would like to thank you for reporting the Star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) to the Oregon Invasive Hotline, and for following up with me through the Conservation District to discuss your invasive species concerns on your property. This is a species that we do not typically see escaping cultivation, but it has shown to be invasive in other states. Controlling this weed can be a difficult task, so I commend you on taking the initiative to contact us about invaders on your property.

Star of Bethlehem spreads predominantly by bulbs and bulblets. These bulbs are easily chipped and spread by common agricultural practices. The annual harrowing of your garden plots within the infested has likely exacerbated the spread of this species on your property. As such, at this point it is important to prevent its continued spread. Any dirt moving or disturbance should be confined to the infested area. Equipment used within the infested area should be carefully cleaned before moving to uninfested portion of your property.

In regard to Star-of-Bethlehem management, there is very little information available. All of the literature I have come across has shown it being a problem in primarily grass and turf operations. The situation you described appears to be novel to our area. The information I was able to find from the eastern United States suggests that herbicides containing carfentrazone and sulfentrazone were reported to provide the best control.

There are a number of herbicides available that contain these active ingredients, but the vast majority of these are not labeled for use in vegetable crops. I was able to search for suitable herbicides through the Pesticide Information Center Online Database (http://cru66.cahe.wsu.edu/labels/Labels.php), and was only able to find one product called Spartan Charge® (EPA registration 279-3337) that cites control of Star-of-Bethlehem in vegetable cropping systems. There are several vendors in the area listed on the producer’s website (http://www.fmccrop.com/grower/Products/Herbicides/Spartan-Charge.aspx). I would recommend contacting one of the vendors to inquire about availability and applications methods.

I have attached a copy of the herbicide label as well as a factsheet on Star- of-Bethlehem for you to review. If after reviewing this documentation, you choose to use chemical control options I strongly recommend that you carefully review the labels for whatever herbicide product you decide to use. As with all herbicides, the Label is the Law. Follow label recommendations and restrictions at all times. The label is designed to reduce harm to you and your property. If any information provided contradicts the label, the label takes precedence. Always follow the label.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact us here at the District. It is always a pleasure to work with enthusiastic landowners like yourselves. Please feel free to contact me if you have any more questions.

All the best,

______________________________________

Samuel Leininger
WeedWise Program Manager
Clackamas Soil & Water Conservation District
221 Molalla Ave. Suite 102
Oregon City, OR 97045
503-210-6006
sleininger@conservationdistrict.org
www.conservationdistrict.org
______________________________________

Samuel Leininger
April 4, 2013, 1:30 a.m.