Horsenettle

Photo by Dr. John Meade, weed scientist emeritus
Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension

Horsenettle is a serious weed pest in many crop situations in New Jersey. A perennial member of the nightshade family, it moves by means of creeping rootstocks. The stem and the under side of the leaves are armed with stout, sharp spines. The berries are poisonous and retain that toxicity through the winter. They are yellow and have proven attractive to youngsters. It is very difficult or impossible to control with herbicides. A good crop rotation with plowing and discing will help to control it.

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