Burning Spring burning 2 or more years in succession will usually control invading cool-season grasses, broadleaf weeds, red cedar and certain deciduous tree sprouts. Burns should not be conducted in years of drought or when winter and spring rains are below normal. Periodically burning a prairie under proper conditions also benefits wildife by making nests harder for predators to find, by improving conditions for animal mobility and by providing dusting areas. Plan to burn only one-third of the prairie in a given year to avoid eliminating all the nesting cover. For more information about burning for prairie management and for help with planning your burn, contact your local Natural Resources Conservation Service office or Missouri Department of Conservation Field Service Agent.
Herbicides Avoid use of broad spectrum herbicides.
Many of the 250 species of plants, including native legumes, on a healthy prairie are palatable and nutritious for livestock and important food and cover to prairie wildlife. Broadleaf herbicides will eliminate these plants, lowering the quality of the prairie hay and wildlife habitat. Spot treat heavy infestations of fire resistant woody species such as sumac, persimmon or oak, and weeds such as musk thistle, cheat or fescue. Leave some clumps of sumac, dogwood or wild plum for summer brood and hardcore winter cover. Read and follow label directions when using herbicides.