Gress, here is the link on ES MB for the Vinegar weed killer. On page 3 (I think) http://www.equestriansingles.com/mb/viewtopic.asp?t=70923

I use a product called "Pasture Pro Herbicide" which when I last purchased it was available at my local Tractor Supply. The label claims that there is no waiting time required for non-lactating grazing animals after application and it does work well on weeds, especially thistle. I think it will also kill clover so be advised. I'm a little conservative with it's use though so I just do spot spraying with it instead of spraying my entire pasture.

there is a product called grazeon that has been recomended to me. I have not tried it yet. It allows grazing within a few hours after application and works for broadleaf, is effective on burdock and tall yellow butter cup. A freind had burdock and roundup made it grow faster, so we looked for something else. I learned that grazeon also works on the buttercup, a problem i have so will try it this year if I can rent an applicator.

The NRCS is a great resource! Along with your local FSA, Extention Office, and Coop. I have talked to all of them and have taken a combination of pointers from them all. The best of the best so to speak. Good luck. I prefer not to use chemicals, but it is a need at times. I had Bitter Nightshade trying to take over parts! I broke down and bought Bucheneer (sp?) which will kill everything. It is very similar to Roundup. I like organic but there is a time and place unfortunately. Good luck!!!

Gress, 2 4 d will kill all broad leaf plants but it will also kill clover, don't know what you are trying to get rid of

Try www.gardeningknowhow.com - several solutions for pet safe weed killers there.

Gress...google salt/vinegar weed killer,,,and there will be several sites you can refer to and different variations of the solution. Then you can also read the comments on the different ones, pick one that you feel OK with and get after those weeds! I'm with you on not mowing/cutting those thistles..just sends all those "seeds" to the farthest most corners!! LOL..I too either pull them up or cut off the tops, then stick them in a feed bag,,and dispose of or burn them. They are pretty prolific!

I scrolled through to find that weed killer recipe with vinegar and salt, but didn't find it. Whoever posted that should post it again for those of us that weren't smart enough to write it down.

SnkPeeks... You can also try the local Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS - division of the USDA)- long name for farm help info!! Every county seat has an office. Every year, there are a 'few' thistles that come on my property. I take a feed sack, leather gloves, some weed killer, and cutters. Cut the tops off (BEFORE they go to seed), cut them down to size, putting all pieces in the feed sack, then spray them (easy to get just the thistle when you're really close like that)!! Kills the plant down to the root - usually, they are hollow inside - I fill that space with weed killer. I figure each ONE thistle I kill before it goes to seed, prevents THOUSANDS from starting!! This year, my orchard grass came back with a 'vengeance' LOL and I don't see but 2-3 weeds on the whole place!! Apparently, orchard grass will choke out a lot of weeds. I fertilize annually...and have added seed to the fertilizer when spread.

You can google "salt, vinegar weed killer" or "natural weed killers"..and get all kinds of info on this. Apparently it has been used for a long time in this capacity. I would have to believe that the vinegar solution would not be as harmful to us and our animals as some of the chemical sprays?? After all,,,we consume vinegar. As with anything we use or we do...I would imagine moderation and good sense when mixing/using these recipes would play an important role in how this works and how safe it is.