AgPest » AgPest » Tag » Invasive

Be vigilant about Velvetleaf.

AgPest — Thu, 21 Dec 2017 18:30:08 +0000

Velvetleaf seed was introduced to NZ as a contaminant of some fodder beet seed and planted in many properties throughout NZ. Therefore, if you have either grown fodder beet or received fodder beet onto your property you need to be vigilant and keep an eye out for this weed and do not let it establish on your property.
Velvet leaf is declared Unwanted Organism by MPI and occurrences must be reported and dealt with. For more information phone the MPI hotline 0800 80 99 66 or go to MPI or go to AgPest, or contact your regional council.

Be alert for Chilean needle grass

AgPest — Tue, 14 Nov 2017 19:00:29 +0000

Chilean needle grass will become evident in pastures during November and December as its distinctive purple-coloured spikelets, with their developing long-awned needle-sharp seeds, emerge from elongating flower stems. Details of this invasive grass can be found here on AgPest. This grass is most likely to be found in pastures on north/west-facing drought-prone slopes. If you suspect that you have it, please contact your local council biosecurity people for identification and management advice.

Invasive weed Field horsetail

AgPest — Sun, 02 Oct 2016 21:30:26 +0000

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) is a very difficult to control perennial weed that regrows each spring/summer from an extensive underground root system. Preventing establishment is the best form of control. Make sure your contractors machines are clean and ask where the machines have been. This root system comprises actively growing rhizomes that can penetrate to more than 1 m in depth, from which green fern-like fronds grow each year. Attached to the deeper rhizomes are small tubers which remain dormant while the rhizome stays alive. Upon the death/decay of the rhizome, or when it becomes detached due to cultivation or other means, the tubers are able to produce new plants.

For further information on Field horsetail including identification, biology, impact and management click here.