How to remove 2" of topsoil in pasture?

[RPW]

I found this on a quick search for controlling cactus Brush Busters . From what I've learned one of the best ways and least expensive is to burn them first. Wait a year and if re-emergence burn again. The other methods are to dig and COMPLETELY remove the entire plant which is difficult and if any part of the plant is missed will cause a major infestation. There is some special herbicides that have a specific sulficant to break down the wax that covers the cactus. Still takes about a year to completely know and remove. This is a prickly problem and one that I will have to deal with on my new property.

Good luck.

 

[Robert6401]

Thanks for all the input everyone. The last time I spot sprayed I used Remedy mixed with diesel and a small amount of dish soap. That is what the local feed and seed mill owner told me to do.

 

[LRTX1]

Thanks for all the input everyone. The last time I spot sprayed I used Remedy mixed with diesel and a small amount of dish soap. That is what the local feed and seed mill owner told me to do.

I would duck!:laughing:

 

[sweettractors]

Thanks for all the input everyone. The last time I spot sprayed I used Remedy mixed with diesel and a small amount of dish soap. That is what the local feed and seed mill owner told me to do.

We have the University of Kentucky, Dept of Agriculture that offers pamplets and expert advice on what to do about a specific problem related to Ag. We are also fortunate to have a County Extention Agent that will come out for free and diagnose the problem and suggest a remedy for us. Do you have this type resorce that is available in your State? Ken Sweet

 

[Soundguy]

As others are saying.. this situation isn't one with a quick easy fix.

removal or spraying are going to be a time consuming or 'waiting game. and one you will just have to keep up with. otherwise 2" of soil removal will still leave some roots and burried pieces... not to mention help propogate tons of weeds.

If it took you all summer to hand pick them.. then I'd say that would be a good investment of time for that property.. that and some spraying, then in a few years, with some grass seed.. it will likely be a darn good pasture.

soundguy

soundguy

 

[Robert6401]

I believe Clemson University has a similar program in our state. I need to look into that. I was just hoping that instead of trying to dig up each individual one to dig up the whole top layer of pasture. From what I can tell based on the ones I have already dug up, their root system runs close to the surface which is why I said 2".

 

[3BPercherons]

Have you talked to your local extension agent? That's always my first stop when I come up against something like what you're facing.

EDIT: Looks like Ken and I had about the same idea at about the same time.

 

[Jaylegger]

Also, removing that much soil will be in the vicinity of 1200 tonne or about 35 tri-axle trailer loads. One of those jobs that was a good idea until about the 4th day into it unless you hire/rent or buy a scraper to do the job.

http://www.deere.com/en_US/ProductCatalog/FR/category/FR_SCRAPER.html

 

[scootr2d]

I don't live in that area of the country however I have a question out of curiosity.

If you remove the top 2 inches of Top soil, wouldn't the rest turn to dust and sand and then wouldn't you have to truck in new top soil at quite a cost once the cactus infestation is eradicated?

I guess I associate cactus with dry arid land without much top soil to hold everything in it place to begin with.

Feel free to educate me. I don't feel dumb asking any question as a laymen, that's how I learn.

 

[wedge40]

I don't live in that area of the country however I have a question out of curiosity.

If you remove the top 2 inches of Top soil, wouldn't the rest turn to dust and sand and then wouldn't you have to truck in new top soil at quite a cost once the cactus infestation is eradicated?

I guess I associate cactus with dry arid land without much top soil to hold everything in it place to begin with.

Feel free to educate me. I don't feel dumb asking any question as a laymen, that's how I learn.

Ya me too. curious minds want to know.

Wedge