Key identifying traits
- 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
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
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©Chris Evans,
University of Georgia,
www.forestryimages.org
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