Foxtail Weeds

[nohorn]

I have been trying to prevent foxtail (grasses) from colonizing the ridge where I live. I have been running around plucking these tails (frowns) off as they are red before they turn to seed. Each one has thousands of seeds. They are a noxious weed as these frowns get in dog noses, eyes, etc. Just my plucking those tails off probably just prevents them to going to seed and propagating the surrounding areas. Does that same plant just produce more tails next year? The perfect way I suppose is digging up the whole plant. Am I correct in my assumption? This would be nearly impossible as I am talking about one plus mile of weeded side of the road.

[shoota]

Wiki says:
Many wild barley species are weeds in disturbed habitats, and their growth is encouraged by foot traffic of humans and domestic animals. Control methods consist of restricting traffic to established paths, and eradication of wild barley by mechanical removal or herbicide. Some other foxtail-producing grasses, especially needlegrasses, are dominant species in stable grassland habitats. Control attempts in these cases can actually be counterproductive, creating disturbed habitats where wild barleys may thrive.

[nohorn]

Thank you shoots, yes I noticed other grassees growing along side, etc.. only their tails don't have quite the burs that are as sticky and itchy as the foxtails.

[shoota]

They are a nightmare for 'furry' dogs; I have cocker spaniels and the seed season is a real worry.

[tamborine]

A herbicide will kill it but strimming or mowing to keep it short will allow buttercups to smother the area. Or get a goat ;)

[Jennykenny]

Start at the beginning and do a few yards a day.
Pour boiling water over the plants and then salt - the cheapest you can find.
B&Q or Tesco often have cheap salt for de-icing drives. Wear gloves. This will completely kill the plant.

[Chipchopper]

A more regular mowing regime might be the answer, this will probably result in plants that are more suitably adapted to this form of management finding a niche there instead.

[nohorn]

Thanks to all! I will give all those some thought.