Table of Contents
Why is kochia a problem?
Kochia An Increasing Problem It is a weed native to Asia and central Europe, and was introduced to Canada as an ornamental planting by European immigrants. It can be difficult to manage, mostly because of its ability to spread and quickly establish itself as a major weed, particularly during drought years.
What are kochia plants used for?
Uses: Kochia is grown as a forage crop for sheep and cattle and as an ornamental. As a forage crop its feed value is slightly lower than that of alfalfa. Protein content ranges from 11 to 22%, and decreases as the plant matures.
Is kochia annual or perennial?
Forage kochia should not be confused with its weedy relative, Kochia scoparia. Forage kochia differs in that it is a perennial shrub and not an annual herb.
Is kochia edible for humans?
Kochia leaves and growing tips are edible cooked. The plant is very salty tasting. Seeds are also a garnish called tonburi with a texture similar to caviar. In fact it is called “land caviar,” “field caviar,” and “mountain caviar.” In Japan tonburi is a delicacy.
Is Kochia a tumbleweed?
What is kochia and russian thistle? Russian thistle (Salsola tragus) and kochia (Kochia scoparia) are common annual broadleaf weeds that become “tumbleweeds” in the fall. These plants can be problematic in many situations where the soil is highly disturbed. These annuals can produce thousands of seeds per plant.
Can you feed kochia to cows?
One very important consideration when feeding kochia is that it can contain saponins, alkaloids, oxalates and nitrates in amounts that can be harmful or toxic to cattle. Therefore, no more than 50 per cent of the ration should consist of kochia.
Can chickens eat kochia?
Kochia provides cover and the seeds are used as food by both songbirds and upland game birds (Stubbendieck et al., 2003). The large quantity of high protein seed makes kochia valuable for poultry feed (Friesen et al., 2009). Kochia is also eaten by deer and pronghorn (Stubbendieck et al., 2003).