Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia): Identification & Selective Herbicide Matrix
Quick Agronomic Summary
Standard 2,4-D or SpeedZone easily eliminates Common Ragweed between 55°F and 85°F.
- Diagnostic Marker 1: Deeply dissected, fern-like, feathery leaves covered in fine soft hairs
- Diagnostic Marker 2: Erect, rough, branched hairy stems growing up to several feet if unmowed
- Diagnostic Marker 3: Spikes of tiny yellow-green male flowers releasing copious airborne allergenic pollen in late summer
What kills Common Ragweed in lawns?
Standard 2,4-D or SpeedZone easily eliminates Common Ragweed between 55°F and 85°F.
Ragweed is very susceptible to synthetic auxin herbicides. Mowing regularly prevents the allergen-producing flower spikes from maturing.
When to spray Common Ragweed?
Spray in late spring to early summer when plants are under 4 inches tall.
Apply before August to prevent pollen release and seed dispersal.
EPA-Registered Herbicides Labeled for Common Ragweed
The table below compares all selective herbicides in our database that control Common Ragweed, including active ingredient groups, application temperature limits (°F), and surfactant requirements.
| Brand Name & EPA Reg. | Active Ingredient & WSSA Group | Temp Window (°F) | Surfactant & Mixing Protocol | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer EPA Reg. 2217-833 |
2,4-D 28.57%, Mecoprop-p 5.88%, Dicamba 1.71%, Carfentrazone-ethyl 0.62% Group 4 + Group 14 (Synthetic Auxins + PPO Inhibitor) |
50°F – 85°F Rainfast: 3h |
Do NOT add surfactant. Adding NIS or MSO increases ester volatility and causes severe contact burn on desirable cool-season turf. | Check Price at DoMyOwn View on Amazon |
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Turfgrass Compatibility Matrix for Common Ragweed Herbicides
Always verify that your chosen herbicide is safe for your specific lawn grass before broadcast spraying:
How to Distinguish Common Ragweed from Lookalike Weeds
| Lookalike Species | Key Botanical & Diagnostic Difference |
|---|---|
| Shepherd's Purse | Ragweed has feathery dissected leaves throughout an upright branched stem, unlike the simple basal rosette of Shepherd's purse. |