Invader plants removal guide
JOBURG - You might not have time to join your community members to uproot weeds. But, when you do get the chance to do it on your own, here's what to look out for.
With the persistent rain that has graced us with its presence over the past weeks, it is no surprise that green spaces have been invaded by unwanted reeds.
Some communities have organised groups of residents who brave the odds to rid their parks of invaders.
For the community members who aren’t able to join such groups but wish to contribute any other day, just a little preparation will equip you for the task.
Brixton resident Elzabé Zietsman has been tackling Kingston Frost Park invaders for six years and can attest to the weed’s ability to grow back.
“My expert advice would be to pull the weeds out by hand to get the roots out, otherwise they will grow back tougher and harder,” she said.
Zeitsman identified the black Jack (Bidens pilosa), Morning Glory Creeper (Ipomoea purpurea) and the Khakibos (Alternanthera pungens) as problematic species.
Friends of Kloofendal’s Karin Spottiswoode offers the simplest techniques of removing the Pompom weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum).
“When you see them, carefully break off the flower head and put into a plastic bag to avoid seeds escaping. Then try and pull out the plant, roots and all and discard roots upwards amongst the local vegetation so that it can die and decompose,” Spottiswoode advised.
“The flower heads can be burnt or simply left in the plastic bag in the sun, where they will rot,” she added.
Spottiswoode said the Pompom weeds are often seen on the road side, spreading very quickly to become a whole field.
Another invasive problem plant she identified is the Bugweed (Solanum Mauritianum).
These five species have the ability to dominate a poorly maintained yard or a park, especially when nourished by the relentless rain.
Arm ourselves with the above information for the next time you stumble upon invaders in the park.
