Welcome to Weed of the Month — where we spotlight invasive troublemakers and share tips to protect your rangeland.

This time, we’re taking on a fast-moving, land-hogging invader: cheatgrass, a.k.a. downy brome (Bromus tectorum).

🚨 Why Is Cheatgrass a Problem?

Cheatgrass is a winter annual that germinates in fall, grows through winter, and seeds by early summer — long before most native plants even get started.

It’s not just quick — it’s disruptive.

On your land, cheatgrass will:

• Steal moisture from native grasses and forbs

• Fuel wildfires by creating a dense mat of dry, early-season fuel

• Provide poor forage once it seeds out

• Harm livestock — seeds can injure mouths, skin, and fur

• Fail wildlife — offers little to no food or habitat most of the year

🛠 How to Control Cheatgrass

Best results come from combining chemical + cultural control methods.

1️⃣ Stop It Before It Starts

• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide (e.g., indaziflam or imazapic) in late summer or early fall to block germination.

2️⃣ Knock It Back in Spring

• Use glyphosate in early spring — but only when native warm-season plants are still dormant.

• Pair with targeted grazing or mowing to reduce seed production.

💡 Good news: Cheatgrass seeds only survive a couple of years. Consistent control = a quick path to clearing your seed bank.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Spring pre-emergent → Hurts natives, doesn’t stop cheatgrass.

• Mid- to late-season grazing/haying → Removes competition, gives cheatgrass the edge.

• Spraying after seed set → Too late — seeds are already viable.

🌱 Native Grasses to Encourage

These grow in similar seasons but actually support wildlife and biodiversity:

Foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum)

Little barley (Hordeum pusillum)

Six-weeks fescue (Vulpia octoflora)

 Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides)

Green needlegrass & sleepy grass (Eriocoma spp.)

✅ Ready to Take Action?

Want help identifying cheatgrass or building the right control plan for your land?
Let’s protect your prairie and grazing resources — together.

📞 Call Midplains Ag — 402-843-5342
📧 Email: [Email Address]
🌐 More resources: www.midplainsag.com