Weeds
A weed is a plant that is not wanted, is out of place, is self sown and usually growing out of control. Weeds can be spread in many ways, including by birds that feed on them and by escaping from suburban gardens. Find out how you can help to reduce weeds in and out of your backyard.
What is the difference between an environmental weed and a noxious weed?
- An environmental weed is often a garden escapee i.e. it was originally grown in someone's garden, but has escaped into other areas. They are invasive plants which are adaptable and opportunistic. It is preferable to remove them altogether or at least keep them under control.
- A noxious weed is a plant that legally must be removed and/or controlled. Most noxious weeds provide a threat to human health, the environment, livestock or the agricultural industry.
Why are weeds a problem?
All weeds inhibit the growth of more desirable plants in one way or another.
Weeds aren't necessarily 'bad plants' they are just in the wrong place.
Can native plants be weeds?
Many Australian natives grown outside their indigenous (naturally occurring) area, can become weeds when grown in other areas of Australia. An example is the Cootamundra Wattle which has become a weed in the Sydney area.
Birds and weeds
Many birds eat berries and seeds, which do not break down in their gut, but pass through and are distributed in their droppings. Many plants rely on birds for seed dispersal, including many weeds. Examples of weeds distributed by birds in the Sydney area are Privet, Ochna and Asparagus Fern. The best way to prevent this is not to grow these types of plant and to remove any that you already have.
What should you do?
- Grow plants that are indigenous to your local area or which are non-invasive and will not 'escape' outside your garden.
- Remove weeds before they set seed.
- Never dispose of garden refuse in bushland or wasteland areas. This is the most frequent cause of garden escapees.
- Composting garden refuse should help, except for persistent weeds such as onion weed, whose corms (bulb-like stem bases) can take years to die. These weeds should be bagged and disposed of in your garbage.
- Consult your local council for more advice on how to control the weeds found in your area.