Gippsland - How Now Gippy Now - August 2010 Edition
DPI tackles serrated tussock
By Melissa Stewart
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) recently inspected properties throughout Briagolong, Stratford and surrounding areas to ensure land owners are meeting their responsibilities to control serrated tussock.
Serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma) is listed as a Regionally Controlled Weed under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 in West Gippsland.
It is also a Weed of National Significance and regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread and economic and environmental impacts.
The foliage of serrated tussock plants is distinctively different to that of native species. Serrated tussock leaves, when rolled between the index finger and thumb, are thin, tightly rolled like a needle and consist of very fine serrations down the leaf blade.
Serrated tussock seeds are a purple colour in contrast to the cream colour of native tussock seeds. Mature serrated tussock plants can produce up to 100,000 seeds. The seeds are viable for up to 13 years and can be carried by wind for up to 20 kilometres from the source.
A long-term management program is necessary.
DPI Pest Management Officer Melissa Stewart said now is the best time to control serrated tussock before the seeding period in early October. Land owners need to be vigilant for new plant growth throughout the whole year, not just during winter.
“An integrated approach with control methods including herbicide treatment, physical removal of the entire plant and roots from the soil, and cultivation of the soil to no less than fifteen centimetres need to be carried out,” Ms Stewart said.
“DPI is working towards eradicating this weed from our catchment.”
If you think you have seen serrated tussock, or for further information, contact your local DPI office or the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
