Opuntia, more commonly known as prickly pear, is a well-recognized symbol of the Southwest, but for land managers and livestock producers, it often represents a persistent challenge. While several species are native to the region, invasive species originating from Central America and the West Indies have also become established. Whether growing horizontally across the ground or standing vertically at heights exceeding six feet, prickly pear can significantly disrupt grazing operations. Its dense structure and sharp spines limit access to desirable forage, reduce pasture productivity, and deter cattle from grazing effectively.
WHY PRICKLY PEAR IS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL
Managing prickly pear is complicated by its ability to spread in multiple ways. The plant reproduces both from seed and from vegetative pads, making complete physical removal a major challenge. Mechanical removal can reduce plant mass quickly, but any pad fragments left behind can take root and form new plants.
Research from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service emphasizes just how aggressive this regrowth can be; a single 0.75 lb. pad was shown to develop into a 69-pad plant weighing 50 pounds in only seven years. This reinforces the need for thorough extraction and diligent follow-up treatments when mechanical control is used. Because viable seeds remain in the soil, herbicide application is essential to control emerging seedlings and new vegetative growth.
While mechanical removal offers rapid visual results, regrowth is almost inevitable without integrated chemical control.
CHEMICAL CONTROL OPTIONS
Herbicides play a critical role in long-term management. Among the most effective options are:
Triumph® 22K
- Contains picloram
- Restricted-use pesticide requiring applicators license.
- Recommended for both individual plant treatment and broadcast applications
- Broadcast rate: 32 oz/acre
Cleargraze®
- Contains fluroxypyr and triclopyr
- Non-restricted product
- Effective for individual plant treatment at a 1.0% v/v mixing rate
For both products, complete coverage of the pads is essential to ensure successful penetration, especially given the natural waxy surface of prickly pear. When applying by individual plant treatment, it is also recommended to use an appropriate adjuvant, which helps maximize herbicide uptake.
In areas where prickly pear density is high, a broadcast approach becomes more effective and economical. Aerial applications are best made during winter months when leaf-off conditions reduce interception by tree canopies and improve herbicide coverage. A minimum spray volume of four gallons per acre is recommended for aerial applications, and at least 10 gallons per acre when applying by ground.
Because prickly pear is slow to respond to herbicides, visible symptoms and meaningful control may take two to three years to see a high level of mortality.
DETERMINING WHEN TO USE BROADCAST TREATMENTS
A general rule of thumb: When prickly pear exceeds 400 plants per acre, broadcast applications become the more cost-effective strategy.
Broadcast treatments are most effective from January through March, when tree canopies are absent. This timing also provides the added benefit of controlling cool-season broadleaf weeds that are in the rosette stage, which can have a positive effect on the coming growing season grass production.
COST SHARE OPPORTUNITIES
In some situations, prickly pear control may qualify for cost-share assistance through NRCS programs. Triumph® 22k is an approved product for the programs. Producers are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office to determine eligibility and explore available support.
THE PATH TO EFFECTIVE, LONG-TERM CONTROL
Prickly pear can quickly overtake grazing areas, restricting forage availability and limiting access for cattle. While mechanical removal can provide short-term relief, long-term control requires a strategic approach that combines proper timing, herbicide selection, and application technique. With the right tools and a long-term management plan, landowners can reclaim valuable pastureland and improve the productivity of their grazing systems.
If you would like help designing a treatment plan or selecting the right herbicide for your operation, a vegetation management ally can provide tailored guidance for your specific conditions. For more information, visit ALLIGARE.COM.
