weed control
Weeds are most often the single greatest factor influencing the success or
otherwise of a revegetation program. The first step in any revegetation
project is to survey the weed species present and develop and implement an
effective weed control program as soon as possible. To develop an effective
control program, an understanding of the mechanisms for reproduction and
spread of all the weed species encountered is required.
The factors that need to be incorporated into the control program are:
• species identification;
• density and distribution across the site;
• invasiveness and potential threat;
• dispersal / reproduction mechanisms;
• key growth, flowering, and seed production periods,;
• site constraints (i.e. proximity to water bodies restricting herbicide
use, site access issues, etc.);
• project timing;
• budget; and
• proposed revegetation methodology.
Several management options usually exist for each site, and by taking into
consideration all of these factors, the most appropriate weed management
program can be designed based on all of these constraints.
Because different weeds tend to predominate at different times of the year,
it is desirable to start weed control well in advance of revegetation
activities.
Tranen is well experienced in weed control by various methods, ranging from
manual removal and topsoil management through to herbicide application.
The photos show a project that involved elimination of weeds using
herbicides and manual removal, with jute mat used to help stabilise the bank
and help control some types of weeds.
