Patch-spraying is much less expensive than broadcast applications across entire fields. There is a lot of growing time left this year. By letting the patch increase in size will mean increasing the expense in control. Just as a comparison to show how fast one milkweed shoot can grow. By the end of that summer, that one shoot had produced 127 above ground shoots and had covered the entire space of the box.
Common milkweed has the potential to equal Canada thistle.
Patch-spraying of Tordon will only leave residue in small patches. However, broadcast spraying Tordon across entire fields will restrict planting of any broadleaf crop for several years. Tillage will add to chemical control methods for milkweed control but may not be viable in soil and moisture conservation practices. Common milkweed is continually getting worse each year. Control milkweed now before it becomes the leafy spurge of cropland.