Download Garlic Mustard - Stevens County

Garlic mustard
Mustard Family
Alliaria petiolata
Key identifying traits
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Flowers are small, white, and have 4 petals
Plants grow to 4’ & typically have one flowering
stalk
In the early spring roots and new leaves smell
like garlic
The root usually has a distinct “S” or “L” shape
just below the stem
Rosettes have kidney shaped leaves while the
mature leaves are triangular and sharply toothed
All images ©Chris Evans, University of Georgia,
www.forestryimages.org
Biology and ecology
 A biennial herb reproducing from seed
 Garlic mustard is native to Europe and more
common in Northern Europe
 In WA state it is found only in King County and
one roadside site in Snohomish County
 It has been used in salads and as a garlic or onion
substitute for recipes; it is high in Vitamins A &
C; also contains antiseptic properties & was used
to clean wounds
Control
Prevention – Learn to identify plants; start
monitoring early in the season; do not allow plants to
produce seed
Biological – There are several potential biological
control agents
Cultural – Plant competitive cover crop
Mechanical – Hand pulling is very effective for small
infestations although rosettes will tend to break
off; tillage can be effective while mowing is not as it
can stimulate crown growth and side roots
Chemical – Herbicides will be the most effective on
rosettes; glyphosate has produced good control
while 2,4-D does not significantly control it; the
PNW Weed Management handbook does not have
specific chemical recommendations for garlic
mustard at this time
Where found – Not known to be in Stevens County at this time
Stevens County Noxious Weed Control Board, February 2007