In our previous blog, we discussed some of the most common weeds you can find in Wichita. While these common Wichita weeds are annoying for homeowners to deal with, they don’t pose any danger to you, your family, or your pets. However, there are some weeds in Wichita that are both a nuisance to deal with and present a genuine threat to you and your family’s well-being.
In this guide, we help you recognize dangerous weeds that could be growing in your neighborhood and provide tips on how to remove them safely.
Why Wichita Residents Should Watch Out for Dangerous Weeds
It’s no secret that weeds can hurt your home’s landscaping. The rapid spread of both common and invasive species can overtake gardens, damage landscaping, and pose health risks to people and pets.
For homeowners, identifying and controlling harmful weeds isn’t just a matter of curb appeal; it helps protect property value, prevent allergic reactions, and complies with local weed control regulations. Understanding which weeds are most dangerous is the first step toward maintaining a safe and healthy yard in Wichita.
When do Dangerous Weeds Start to Grow?
Dangerous weeds in Wichita typically begin to emerge in early spring and thrive through the summer months when temperatures rise and rainfall is steady. Many invasive and toxic species in Wichita grow rapidly during this time. Keep an eye on your yard regularly during these peak growth seasons as it can help prevent widespread infestations over time.
The Most Dangerous Weeds in Wichita & What They Look Like
Poison Ivy
Poison ivy is most easily identified by its classic grouping of three pointed leaflets, often with slightly toothed or smooth edges. The leaves can vary in color from reddish in the spring to green in summer and yellow-orange in the fall. It often grows as a low shrub or climbing vine, and may have hairy-looking aerial roots when attached to trees or fences.
How can you spot poison ivy? Just remember the saying: “Leaves of three, let it be.” This simple phrase reminds you that poison ivy usually grows with three leaflets in a group, an easy way to recognize and avoid it.
How to Safely Remove Poison Ivy
- Wear long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection to prevent skin contact.
- Use plastic bags to cover hands and forearms if proper gloves are unavailable.
- Carefully dig out the entire plant, including the root system, using a shovel.
- Avoid burning poison ivy. The smoke can carry toxic oils and cause severe reactions.
- Dispose of the plant in sealed plastic bags with regular trash, not compost.
- Wash clothing, gloves, and tools separately with soap and water after handling.
Important Poison Ivy Facts:
- Poison ivy is dangerous to touch due to urushiol oil, which causes and itchy rash.
- Even dead plants can trigger allergic reactions.
- Pets can carry urushiol oil on their fur and transfer it to humans.
Pokeweed
Pokeweed is a tall, fast-growing plant that can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet. It has thick, reddish-purple stems, large green leaves, and clusters of small white or greenish flowers that turn into dark purple berries in late summer. While the berries may look appealing, the entire plant, including the roots, leaves, and fruit, is toxic to humans and animals.
How to Safely Remove Pokeweed:
- Wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection to avoid contact with toxic sap.
- Use a shovel to dig out the entire root system. Pokeweed has a deep, thick taproot.
- Remove seedlings as soon as possible before roots develop.
- Place all plant material in sealed plastic bags; do not compost or burn.
- Wash hands, tools, and clothing separately and thoroughly after handling.
Facts About Pokeweed:
- All parts of the pokeweed plant are considered poisonous if ingested, especially the roots and berries.
- Birds eat the berries without harm and help spread the seeds.
- Pokeweed sap can cause skin irritation or more serous health effects if ingested.
Foxtail
Foxtail is a grassy weed known for its bushy, tail-like seed heads that resemble a fox’s tail. It grows in clumps and can range in height from a few inches to over 3 feet. The seed heads are often green, yellow, or purple, and they break apart easily, which helps them spread. Foxtail commonly appears in lawns, along sidewalks, and in disturbed soil.
Tips on Safely Removing Foxtail:
- Pull small patches by hand before seed heads mature, using gloves to protect your hands.
- Mow regularly to prevent the plant from producing seed heads.
- Use a hoe or shovel to uproot larger clumps, including roots.
- Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring to prevent growth.
- Avoid letting foxtail seed, as it spreads quickly through dry grass.
Quick Facts About Foxtail:
- The seed heads can be harmful to pets. The barbed seeds can get lodged in ears, noses, eyes, and skin, causing irritation and potential infection.
- Foxtail is an annual grass that thrives in disturbed or thin areas of the lawn.
- Each plant can produce thousands of seeds, making early prevention vital.
Poison Hemlock
Poison hemlock is a tall, invasive plant that can grow 6 to 10 feet high and is often mistaken for wild carrot or Queen Anne’s lace. It has smooth, hollow stems with distinctive purple blotches, fern-like leaves, and clusters of small white flowers arranged in umbrella-shaped patterns.
Despite its lacy appearance, poison hemlock is extremely toxic to humans and animals, even with minimal contact.
Safely Removing Poison Hemlock:
- Always wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, and eye protection—its toxins can absorb through the skin.
- Avoid using string trimmers or mowers, which can spread toxic plant particles.
- Carefully dig out the entire plant, including the taproot, preferably when the soil is moist.
- Place all plant parts in sealed plastic bags; do not compost or burn.
- Wash hands, tools, and clothing separately immediately after handling.
Facts About Poison Hemlock:
- All parts of the poison hemlock plant are extremely poisonous if ingested and can be fatal to humans and animals.
- It is often found growing in moist areas, along roadsides, and in waste places.
- Even dead plants remain toxic, posing ongoing risks to pets, livestock, and children.
Pictures of Harmful Weeds
How to Prevent Dangerous Weeds Before They Grow
Effective weed control involves a mix of manual removal, proper lawn care, and targeted herbicide use. Pulling or digging weeds early and maintaining a thick, healthy lawn can prevent many harmful species from spreading. For tougher infestations, pre- and post-emergent herbicides offer reliable results when applied correctly.
Are Post-Emergent Herbicides Worth It?
Post-emergent herbicides can help control existing weeds, but preventing them from growing in the first place is usually more effective. For detailed tips on the best times and types of herbicides to use, be sure to read our article, “How to Prevent Weeds Early.” Remember, a healthy, well-maintained lawn is your best defense against weed growth.
Why Working With a Professional is a Good Call
You should call a professional when dangerous weeds become too widespread, difficult to identify, or pose health risks to you, your family, or your pets. Invasive species like poison hemlock, pokeweed, or foxtail can be challenging and dangerous to remove without the proper tools and safety precautions.
A licensed lawn care expert can accurately identify the problem, apply targeted treatments, and prevent the weeds from returning, saving you time, effort, and potential exposure to toxic plants. Professional help is especially important if weeds are growing near high-traffic areas or if previous DIY attempts haven’t been successful.
Take Control of Your Wichita Yard and Stay Safe
Taking control of your yard starts with knowing what you’re up against, and in Wichita, that means recognizing and safely removing harmful weeds before they become a bigger problem. By staying informed and knowing when to call in the pros, you’ll keep your outdoor spaces safe, healthy, and enjoyable all season long. Contact Elite Landscape Solutions for expert advice and a free estimate on weed control service. Your lawn will thank you!