Biological Control

Chemical Control

Musk thistle reproduces only by seed, so control methods that sever the root below the soil surface are effective in killing the plant.

Tilling, hoeing, and hand-pulling should be done before flowering occurs to prevent seed production.

Mowing can reduce seed production if done when plants are in the late-flowering stage. Musk thistle should be cut as close to the ground as possible.

After mechanical control measures are used, the infested site should be re-vegetated with desirable plants. Vigorously growing grasses can be used to suppress the re-establishment of musk thistle from seeds left in the soil.