Biological Crofton Weed Release In The Manning

Making a Difference

Biological Crofton Weed Release In The Manning

Making a Difference

Taking Action -

LLCI015-002

The issue

Crofton weed (Ageratina adenophora) is a well known weed of eastern coastal Australia since it ‘escaped’ from gardens across Sydney.

Crofton weed grows well in our temperate Manning Valley climate. Plants are usually found growing on shaded, south facing slopes or in shaded, often inaccessible, wet gullies.  Property owners are challenged when considering control methods by the terrain, making machinery access difficult and the fact that these areas are often contain other vegetation sensitive to herbicides.

Crofton weed reduces production and is poisonous to horses.  The plant has a fine seed that spreads by wind and water.

The solution

In conjunction with the CSIRO and three local Council Weeds Officers, Manning Landcare held a weeds field day at Krambach Hall.

This day was well attended with 120 landholders eager to hear from CSIRO scientists working on the biological controls.

The fungus (Baeodromus eupatorii) originates from Mexico (where Crofton weed is native) was first introduced to Australia in June 2014.  The rust infects the young leaves and stems of the plant, stunting development and disrupting its ability to reproduce.

Keen interest from the day led to the CSIRO committing to partnering with Manning Landcare to conduct a trail releases in the Manning area.

Manning Landcare selected 11 strategically situated properties with infestations where the landholder was willing to monitor and report on the progression of the fungus.

The impact

Distribution to eleven sites however only two of these have been successful.The two successful sites are located at Killabakh and Wherrol Flat.

Owners of these are very happy to report that the rust has spread outside the trial area.The positive is that both landholders are happy to act as nurseries to harvest infected material and share it with others.

Manning Landcare will continue to map and collect monitoring data from landholders, reporting back to CSIRO

Key facts

  • Biological control for Crofton Weed introduced to the Manning
  • Nursey sites established

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