Grassy, perennial weeds like Serrated Tussock and African Lovegrass are the scourge of the Monaro. They rapidly invade native and introduced pastures and significantly impact on the environment and agricultural productivity. Furthermore, dense infestations of African Lovegrass pose a significant fire risk and if not managed effectively can endanger life and property as a result of grass fire.

 

Serrated Tussock and African Lovegrass will produce viable seeds by November/December each year, with Serrated Tussock typically seeding from as early as late October in some areas. Both are declared noxious weeds and must be effectively controlled prior to seeding*. Help yourself and your neighbour and avoid costly legal action by ensuring that these weeds are controlled NOW.

 

* Note: Legislative provisions have allowed for the relaxation of control requirements for African Lovegrass within the Cooma-Canberra corridor.

 

If controlling Serrated Tussock and African Lovegrass by chemical application first consider timing, whether the plant is actively growing and whether chemical application is likely to impact on any off-target organisms. Two chemical options are commonly used for controlling Serrated Tussock and African Lovegrass, each with very different properties.

 

Fluproponate is available either in granular or liquid form and is typically sold as Taskforce, Kennock, Scuffle or GP Fluproponate. Because Fluproponate takes several months to kill the plant, if used alone it will not prevent Serrated Tussock from seeding when used this late in the season.

 

Glyphosate is sold under a large range of trade names, though is most commonly and historically known as Roundup. Glyphosate provides a quick kill when plants are actively growing, though will provide varied results if plants are stressed or not actively growing. African Lovegrass during early spring is typically in winter dormancy and will not be effectively controlled using Glyphosate alone.

 

From late spring through to autumn Glyphosate alone can generally provide effective control, or if the plants appear stressed a Glyphosate/Fluproponate mix is likely to provide the best results. Some Glyphosate products have been developed for use in aquatic situations. These products are specifically formulated with built-in 'aquatically approved' surfactants and should be used where infestations are situated in aquatic or other sensitive environmental areas.

 

Prior to using any chemical always read and understand the label and ensure that you have obtained the appropriate experience, skills and accreditation. For more information, contact your local Council weeds officer or agronomist. Watch this space for information on non-chemical control methods.

 

If you require further information, please contact Roger Roach on (02) 6455 1942.