Do you need help identifying a weed?  Are you concerned about that mystery plant growing in your pasture? Or wonder if that new flower taking over your backyard or pond is a noxious weed?

Identifying your weed is the most important step to effective weed control. There are many ways to get started! Here's just a couple our specialists prefer:

• Using characteristics about the weed for Washington weeds: use the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board’s “identify a weed” form: link to form

• Using your phone camera for all plants (and living organisms) : use the phone app “seek” by iNaturalist to ID using AI technology with your camera or a photo: link to seek info and app

• Browse our flowering weed photo index to see if your weed is there (Note: our website mainly covers weeds on the Washington State Noxious Weed List and may not include all common weeds or weeds located outside of Washington State).

• Send quality digital pictures by email (Please note: if you are located outside of Washington State, we may not be able to identify your plant, and you may want to contact a local expert).

• Call us at 206-477-WEED to set up a site visit for large infestations of regulated weeds

• If you are located in King County, Washington, you can also mail us a plant (in a sealed plastic bag with a DRY paper towel, including information to contact you) or drop it off at our office during the work week. 201 S. Jackson St., Suite 600, Seattle, WA 98104

• Learn more about how to report-a-weed and help us track infestations here

Related information

• Agriculture in King County, Washington
• Northwest yard and garden
• Animals, plants and habitat
• Northwest native plant guide

Related agencies

• Dept. of Natural Resources and Parks
• Water and Land Resources Division

Program offices are located at 201 S. Jackson St., Suite 600, Seattle, WA 98104. To contact staff, see the Noxious Weed Control Program Directory, send an email, or call 206-477-WEED (206-477-9333).