Foxtails (Setaria spp.) are invasive grasses that compete aggressively with desirable pasture and hay species. They reduce hay yields, lower forage quality, and can injure livestock with their sharp seedhead awns. While young foxtail plants can be grazed and have protein levels similar to some forages, they quickly become unpalatable and poorly digestible as they mature.

A common concern from producers and landowners is that once foxtail appears, it seems to spread rapidly and dominate stands. This happens because foxtails are prolific seed producers and can establish both from seed and, in the case of knotroot foxtail, from rhizomes.

Foxtail can be managed through an integrated approach. For practical ideas on cultural, mechanical, and chemical strategies to manage foxtail, see this resource: Foxtail Identification and Control.