Overview
Corn spurry is an annual plant that is formed from a taproot which commonly infests cultivated regions. An average plant can produce 1500-7000 seeds, therefore making the species highly mobile and enhancing the probability of local dispersal in the cropping zones. Corn spurry has an irregular form which can be described as bush like, due to its high branching at the base of a mature plant. Corn spurry is also known to harbour viruses which could possibly lead to infections of host crop and result in significant losses if this broadleaf weed is not controlled.
Main description
Seedling
The Cotyledons of corn spurry are slender with a typical needle shape.
Mature plant
The leaves are long, narrow and hairless. They can sometimes be sticky to the touch and are found in whorls lacking stalks. Mature corn spurry stems can grow up to 40 cm in length. Its flowers are small in size with a very distinct 5 pedal flower that is very well formed
Optimal growth conditions
The species Spergula arvensis is found in cultivated fields, abandoned fields and disturbed habitats. It tolerates dry to moderately-dry conditions and is commonly associated with light or acid soils.
Crops
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Asparagus
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Barley
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Carrots
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Chickpeas
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Fababeans
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Field Corn
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Lentils
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Peas
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Potatoes
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Pulses
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Soybeans
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Sweet White Lupins
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Tomatoes
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Wheat
Visit the Bayer CropScience Compendium site for more details »