Weeds can be sent to the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics at the University of Minnesota for identification. There is no charge, but this service is only offered to crop producers and those people working in the agricultural service sector--See note for HOME OWNERS-WEED ID at the end of the article. Weed samples that need to be identified can be sent in two ways: (1) by mail or (2) email with attached digital photos. If using Email, enclose background information about the weed along with 2-3 digital photos. Be sure the photos are good quality and in focus so they show the main characteristics of the weed such as the whole plant, stem, leaf structure, and flower. If you are mailing a sample for identification, please follow the guidelines below.

• DO NOT place weeds in plastic bags or wrap in plastic. Plants will turn to mush in the mail.
• DO NOT tape weeds to paper or manila folders.
• Place plant samples in newspapers or paper towels. Press overnight under the weight of a heavy book and mail them in the paper. If necessary, plants can be gently folded to accommodate the envelope.
• Mail all plants samples at the beginning of the week. This will help to avoid having the plant samples sit in the post-office over a weekend.
• Send at least two samples of the entire plant that include the top growth of the plant- stems, leaves, and the flowers and/or fruits, if available. Roots are not normally needed for identification of older plants. However, if sending weed seedlings or older plants, please send the entire plant.
• Include background information about the plant: perennial, annual, biennial (if known), where found (cropland, near a wetland, edge of field, soil type, sunny/shady location, etc.)
• Include your name address, phone number, and/or email.
  

Mail weed samples to:
Kevin Cavanaugh Digital photos can be sent by email
Department of Agronomy & Plant Genetics cavan008@umn.edu
411 Borlaug Hall
1991 Upper Buford Circle
St. Paul, MN 55108

Information on weed management, herbicide application, and timing can be found in the University of Minnesota Extension Service publication BU-3157-S Cultural and Chemical Weed Control in Field Crops-2003. You can view this on the web at:
www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/DC3157.html#cult
Click on the PDF version in the upper left hand corner to view the entire bulletin.

HOME OWNERS-WEED ID
Follow the above guidelines when mailing samples to the Yard and Garden Clinic. The Yard and Garden Clinic charges $5.00 for identification. Payment must accompany sample. Check with your University of Minnesota County Extension Office for a Master Gardener who may be able to identify the weed FREE before sending in a sample to Yard and Garden.
Yard and Garden phone: 612-624-4771.
Yard and Garden Line
155 Alderman Hall
1970 Folwell Ave.
University of Minnesota
St. Paul, MN 55108