Time to control the dangerous Fireweed
1 Oct 10
As we are coming to the end of the Fireweed growing season, now is the time to control Fireweed before the plants have a chance to set seed.
Council’s Noxious Weeds Manager Mr Ian Borrowdale said that “although Fireweed was slow to commence its growing cycle this year, good falls of rain and cool temperatures have seen a proliferation of Fireweed across most areas of the City.
This has meant the plants are now growing vigorously, in flower and ready to set seed.”
Mr Borrowdale said ‘it is important for all private property owners to take control measures now to prevent Fireweed from setting seed and spreading further.
Taking this action now can assist in reducing Fireweed numbers for the next season.”
He said “in the control areas of Kangaroo Valley and Southern Shoalhaven which are still only lightly infested with Fireweed, the best method of control is to hand pull and bag Fireweed plants for proper disposal.
In other areas of the City where Fireweed is widespread, the Fireweed Management Plan allows property owners to slash mulch or spray for Fireweed to control this noxious weed.”
Mr Borrowdale urged all property owners to commence control action now before the plants can set seed, which can be spread over a great distance by wind.
Council recently resolved that Kangaroo Valley, Ulladulla and West Nowra waste depots would trial the disposal of bagged fireweed free of charge.
To classify as a no-charge load, the entire load must consist of fireweed only.
For further information please contact Council’s Noxious Weeds Office on 4429 3832
during business hours.