Central Victorians are being encouraged to rid their land of Paterson’s curse, a noxious weed threatening conservation areas and livestock.
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Macedon Ranges Shire Council made the request to its residents after high spring rainfalls led to a proliferation of the weed inside the shire’s boundaries.
The plant is characterized by its small, stiff bristles, which can cause irritation, and two to three-centimetre-long purple flowers.
Planning and environment director Sophie Segafredo said landowners should act immediately to avoid the weed smothering their pastures.
“Treatment options include manual removal or spraying with an approved herbicide,” Ms Segafredo said.
The weed should be sprayed before it flowers, she said.
While brush cutting and slashing were effective, short term options, cut Paterson’s Curse can shoot again and flower outside of its peak season.
Property owners were also warned to avoid spreading the seed via their vehicles, machinery and introduced soil.
“The best treatment is prevention, so it is important to ensure slashers, mowers and other machinery are free of weed seeds before entering or exiting private property,” Ms Segafredo said.
“The important thing is to address it as soon as it’s noticed, so its spread is limited.”
To report Paterson’s Curse and other noxious weeds on private land, call Agriculture Victoria on 5482 1922.