I read a story this week about cogongrass, which is being compared to kudzu for its invasiveness and being called one of the ten worst weeds in the world. Alabama has created a Cogongrass Control Center to try to contain the weed in that state, but it will be a challenge to keep it from moving north, according to the project coordinator. "Left unchecked, 'it could spread all the way to Michigan,' " he told the New York Times.

The piece reminded me of a 2001 story we ran here in which Indiana farmers were surveyed to name their ten worst weeds, which were:

1. Giant ragweed

2. Canada thistle

3. Johnsongrass

4. Common lambsquarters

5. Shattercane

6. Hemp dogbane

7. Burcucumber

8. Velvetleaf

9. Common ragweed

10. Common cocklebur

I know there is geographical variation in what weeds are the hardest for a farmer to control. But, are there any you would add to this list?

Anything this year that's been particularly problematical, or a weed that's been getting worse in your area? Thanks.

-- John