Control by Eliminating Seed Sources Control begins with eliminating seed sources. Jointed goatgrass joints are often found in fall-sown small grain seed, especially winter wheat. On cultivated fields, destroy jointed goatgrass before it produces seed. If seed reaches the soft dough stage it will probably be viable. It may germinate as late as mid-April and still have sufficient cold weather to vernalize and produce seed.
Small plants can produce viable seed.
Thoroughly clean combines and other machinery before moving between fields. Harvest fields in rotation with warm-season crops first since jointed goatgrass control in these fields is easier. Make sure jointed goatgrass is kept out of roadside ditches and other areas that may contaminate the fields. This task may be aided by covering all trucks transporting winter wheat grain. Contaminated grain should be run through a hammer mill before feeding to livestock.