Stop the spread of spiny summer creeps

‘Tis the season for holidaying, hanging out at the beach and getting on top of summer weed control. One to be on the lookout for this summer is the perennial, prostrate (creeping) Khaki weed.

Natural Resources South East acting Upper South East District Manager Kym Haebich said there have been isolated patches reported in Keith and Bordertown.

“Khaki weed (Alternanthera pungens) is typically found in Victoria and New South Wales,” said Mr Haebich.

“Early detection in the Upper South East has meant we have been able to treat infested areas, and monitor any spread across the region.”

A tropical American native, Khaki weed features broad leaves and straw coloured burrs about 1cm long. Infestations readily occur in irrigated pasture and lawns, forming a dense carpet of sharp burrs that can injure animals and humans.

“These spiny burrs are easily spread,” said Mr Haebich.

“They attach to things like tyres, footwear, tents and vehicle carpets, so check your vehicle and equipment when coming home from interstate road trips, to reduce the spread.”

Small infestations can be dug out by hand. Ensure the taproot is completely removed from the soil, and place all plant material in thick plastic bags ready for deep burial or burning. Inspections of the treated site are necessary for at least three years to prevent reinfestation.

“Khaki weed is listed as a declared weed in South Australia, meaning landholders are required by law to destroy infestations and notify their local NRM Board if an infestation is detected on their property.”

“If you need any assistance in identifying or controlling Khaki weed, don’t hesitate to give your local Natural Resources Management (NRM) Officer a call.”

For NRM Officer contact details see the link below or call 8735 1177. The SA Weed Control app from Biosecurity SA is available for download via Google Play and App Store, and hard copies of the latest Weed Control Handbook are available from Natural Resources South East.