Pickering weed, also known as Pickering’s morning glory, is a common weed in the southeastern United States. It is a member of the Convolvulaceae, or morning glory, family. The plant is an annual, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season. Pickering weed grows up to four feet tall and has climbing or trailing stems. The leaves are heart-shaped and the flowers are white or pink. The plant reproduces by seed.
Pickering weed can be found…
Pickering weed can be found in disturbed areas such as gardens, fields, and roadsides. It thrives in full sun and sandy soils. The plant is tolerant of drought and poor drainage. Pickering weed is considered a nuisance weed because it can climb and smother other plants. The weed can also cause skin irritation.
If you have Pickering weed in your garden, you can control it by hand-pulling the plant or using a hoe to cut the stem at the soil surface. Pickering weed is also susceptible to herbicides. You can use a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent Pickering weed seed from germinating, or a post-emergent herbicide to kill existing plants. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any type of herbicide.