Scotch Thistle (Onopordum acanthium) is a highly invasive and noxious weed that poses significant challenges to agricultural lands, pastures, and natural ecosystems. Known for its towering height, spiny leaves, and prolific seed production, Scotch Thistle can quickly dominate landscapes if left unchecked. The best herbicide for Scotch Thistle must effectively target both the foliage and root system to prevent regrowth and seed production.

This guide evaluates the most effective herbicides for controlling Scotch Thistle, focusing on their active ingredients, application methods, and suitability for different environments. Whether you are managing large agricultural fields or small infested areas, this article will help you choose the right herbicide for Scotch Thistle control.

Best Herbicides for Scotch Thistle

1. 2,4-D Amine – Selective Broadleaf Herbicide

2,4-D Amine is a widely used herbicide for Scotch Thistle control, particularly in pastures and rangelands. Its selective action targets broadleaf weeds like Scotch Thistle without harming grasses. The herbicide is absorbed through the foliage and translocated to the roots, ensuring systemic control.

Apply 2,4-D Amine at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre during the rosette stage of Scotch Thistle. For best results, mix with a non-ionic surfactant to enhance leaf absorption. Avoid application during hot or dry conditions, as this may reduce efficacy.

University trials have shown that 2,4-D Amine achieves 85-90% control of Scotch Thistle when applied at the correct growth stage. Its affordability and effectiveness make it a popular choice for large-scale infestations.

2. Milestone – Aminopyralid Herbicide

Milestone is a highly effective herbicide for Scotch Thistle, offering both foliar and soil residual control. Its active ingredient, aminopyralid, targets the root system of Scotch Thistle, preventing regrowth and seed production. This makes it ideal for long-term management.

Apply Milestone at a rate of 5-7 fluid ounces per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours, ensuring consistent performance. Milestone is safe for use in grasslands and non-crop areas.

Field trials have demonstrated 95% control of Scotch Thistle with Milestone, even in dense infestations. Its low use rate and long-lasting residual activity make it a cost-effective solution for Scotch Thistle control.

3. Tordon 22K – Picloram Herbicide

Tordon 22K is a powerful herbicide for Scotch Thistle, particularly in rangeland and non-crop areas. Its active ingredient, picloram, provides both foliar and soil residual control, making it highly effective against established thistles.

Apply Tordon 22K at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Use caution near desirable plants, as picloram can persist in the soil.

Research from Montana State University has shown 98% control of Scotch Thistle with Tordon 22K. Its ability to prevent regrowth and seed production makes it a top choice for severe infestations.

4. GrazonNext HL – Aminopyralid + 2,4-D

GrazonNext HL combines aminopyralid and 2,4-D for broad-spectrum control of Scotch Thistle and other broadleaf weeds. Its dual-action formula ensures both foliar and root absorption, providing comprehensive control.

Apply GrazonNext HL at a rate of 19-34 fluid ounces per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and is safe for use in pastures and rangelands.

University trials have demonstrated 90-95% control of Scotch Thistle with GrazonNext HL. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a popular choice for integrated weed management programs.

5. Transline – Clopyralid Herbicide

Transline is a selective herbicide for Scotch Thistle, particularly effective in rangeland and non-crop areas. Its active ingredient, clopyralid, targets the root system of thistles, preventing regrowth and seed production.

Apply Transline at a rate of 0.5-1.33 pints per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Transline is safe for use around grasses and some broadleaf plants.

Field trials have shown 90% control of Scotch Thistle with Transline. Its selective action and low use rate make it a valuable tool for managing thistles in sensitive environments.

6. Curtail – Clopyralid + 2,4-D

Curtail is a combination herbicide that uses clopyralid and 2,4-D for effective control of Scotch Thistle. Its dual-action formula ensures both foliar and root absorption, providing comprehensive control.

Apply Curtail at a rate of 2-4 quarts per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and is safe for use in wheat, barley, and rangelands.

University trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of Scotch Thistle with Curtail. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a popular choice for integrated weed management programs.

7. Escort XP – Metsulfuron-methyl Herbicide

Escort XP is a sulfonylurea herbicide that provides effective control of Scotch Thistle in rangeland and non-crop areas. Its active ingredient, metsulfuron-methyl, inhibits weed growth by disrupting amino acid synthesis.

Apply Escort XP at a rate of 0.5-1 ounce per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Use caution near desirable plants, as Escort XP can persist in the soil.

Field trials have shown 90% control of Scotch Thistle with Escort XP. Its low use rate and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for managing thistles in sensitive environments.

8. Roundup Pro Max – Glyphosate Herbicide

Roundup Pro Max is a non-selective herbicide that provides effective control of Scotch Thistle in non-crop areas and spot treatments. Its active ingredient, glyphosate, targets the entire plant, including the roots, ensuring complete control.

Apply Roundup Pro Max at a rate of 22-44 fluid ounces per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides quick results. Use caution near desirable plants, as glyphosate is non-selective.

Field trials have demonstrated 95% control of Scotch Thistle with Roundup Pro Max. Its effectiveness and quick action make it a popular choice for spot treatments and small infestations.

9. Plateau – Imazapic Herbicide

Plateau is a selective herbicide that provides both pre- and post-emergent control of Scotch Thistle. Its active ingredient, imazapic, targets the root system of thistles, preventing regrowth and seed production.

Apply Plateau at a rate of 4-12 fluid ounces per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Plateau is safe for use in rangelands and non-crop areas.

University trials have shown 85-90% control of Scotch Thistle with Plateau. Its dual-action formula and low use rate make it a valuable tool for managing thistles in sensitive environments.

10. Weedmaster – Dicamba + 2,4-D

Weedmaster is a combination herbicide that uses dicamba and 2,4-D for effective control of Scotch Thistle. Its dual-action formula ensures both foliar and root absorption, providing comprehensive control.

Apply Weedmaster at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre during the rosette to early bolting stage. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and is safe for use in pastures and rangelands.

Field trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of Scotch Thistle with Weedmaster. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a popular choice for integrated weed management programs.

Buyer’s Tips for Scotch Thistle Herbicides

Identify Growth Stage
Apply Scotch Thistle Herbicide during the rosette to early bolting stage for best results.

Choose the Right Herbicide
Select Scotch Thistle Herbicide based on the application site – pasture, rangeland, or non-crop areas.

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add non-ionic surfactant to Scotch Thistle Herbicide sprays for better leaf absorption.

Follow Label Rates
Measure Scotch Thistle Herbicide carefully – over-application can harm desirable plants.

Consider Soil Residual
Choose Scotch Thistle Herbicide with soil residual activity for long-term control.

Rotate Modes of Action
Alternate Scotch Thistle Herbicide chemistry to prevent resistance development.

Monitor for Regrowth
Follow up with additional Scotch Thistle Herbicide applications if regrowth occurs.

Conclusion

For most Scotch Thistle infestations, Milestone and Tordon 22K provide the most effective control due to their systemic and residual activity. In sensitive environments, Transline and Plateau offer selective control with minimal impact on desirable plants. Always apply Scotch Thistle Herbicide during the rosette to early bolting stage and follow up with proper monitoring to ensure long-term control.