ScientificName: Cirsium horridulum and vulgare
Description: There are a variety of thistles with most being biennials. This weed does most of it’s growing in the summer months and spreads by seed.
Organic Control: Use an organic preemergent in the fall and in the spring such as corn gluten meal to stop any new germination from occurring. 20% Vinegar or other acid based weed control products can kill the foliage of any currently established weeds. The taproot must be completely destroyed or removed to prevent regrowth.
Interesting Fact: Some types of thistle are used as galactagogues, which are believed to increase lactation.