![]() ![]() The control of Mistletoe is difficult in large areas such as the golf courses and NAOS. Left untouched, it will attain a size that will greatly weaken the tree and can kill major branches or even the entire tree. Once an infection has occurred, the root system of the Mistletoe grows within the tree branch. Mistletoe infections are mainly spread by birds that feed on the Mistletoe berries and tap into the tree’s system for food and water. About 80% of the infected trees we see around Desert Mountain are Mistletoe, while the rest are Witches Broom infestations. It grows into a dense mass of branched stems on the infected tree. Mistletoe is a parasitic flowering plant that can grow on many Palo Verde, Mesquite and Acacia trees. Desert Broom burns fiercely and is a significant threat to nearby structures. In Desert Mountain it often gets started near fences or other structures and in retention basins. It gets started in disturbed areas or at the base of an established plant. Desert Broom is aggressive and grows quickly to ten feet high or more. This invasive weed is number one on Scottsdale’s invasive weed list and it is on Desert Mountain’s Prohibited Plant List. Homeowners are responsible for plants on their private property. An established plant has stiff stems and leaves (like broom straws). October through January, mature Desert Broom is in bloom the flowers are pale cream or bright white (never bright yellow). Do you have Desert Broom growing on your property? You can help protect our beautiful desert setting and our Natural Area Open Space (NAOS) areas by learning to identify this invader. ![]()
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