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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Sunday - July 23, 2006

From: Broomfield, CO
Region: Rocky Mountain
Topic: Turf
Title: Removal of Western yarrow invading lawn
Answered by: Nan Hampton and Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

We have western yarrow in our yard and it is starting to take over and kill the grass. How do we get rid of it?

ANSWER:

The safest way to get rid of Western yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is by digging/pulling it up. This should be done before the seeds set and drop. If you can't dig it all up before the seeds fall, cut the flower heads off and dispose of them. You will need to be persistent to get it all and it may take a couple of years to be completely rid of it.
 

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