Why is this important?
Removing and controlling weed species means they won't compete with native seedlings. This is essential for a successful planting project.
Site prep is site specific
Some sites may need minimal prep. You can simply dig holes on planting day.
Other sites will have pest plants such as willow or privet, which will require substantial effort and cost to remove. When it gets challenging, complex or expensive, contact your regional council for advice and potential funding support.
Tips for preparing your site
- Late summer/early autumn is the best time to prep your site.
- Asses your planting area. There may be existing native plants. Make a plan for what to remove and what to keep.
- Identify which weeds are present and decide which control methods are best suited.
- Consider starting predator control before you plant to protect your seedlings.
- SBN recommends spray-free methods, or using minimal spray to control the worst weeds. There are many ways to to remove weeds and prevent weed growth without chemicals.
- Gorse can be a great nursery plant for young trees (especially mānuka and kānuka). It provides protection from the wind and sun, but they can grow through and eventually shade the gorse out.
External resources to check out
- Weedbusters has a lot of info about pest plants and their control methods.
- Your Weed Control Guide by Forest & Bird provides guidance on control methods for specific weeds.
Herbicide - Best practice
- Read the label.
- Understand Health and Safety requirements (Personal Protective Equipment is essential).
- Less is better.
- Only spray on dry, wind-free days.
- Choose the right herbicide. Make sure it is effective on the weed species you are targeting.
- Gels are more effective on woody species than aerial sprays.
- Consider spot spraying before planting rather than broadcast spraying the entire area.
- Use dye in your spray to help you identify what you’ve already done.
- Avoid spraying close to waterways. Herbicides can be extremely toxic to aquatic flora and fauna.
- Ensure you recycle your chemical containers correctly.
Consider a Growsafe course
If you are interested in undertaking foliar weed control on a large-scale, learn about how agrichemicals work and the risks involved through a Growsafe course.
