The high turnout at GeoCatch’s arum lily control workshop indicates that community interest in controlling this invasive weed is high.
Almost 60 landholders and volunteers attended the workshop to learn about the biology and control methods for arum lily. A key message was that while arum lily is increasing its range in our Catchment, control is possible and not as hard as many people think.
Drew McKenzie from Litoria Ecoservices has been controlling arum lily throughout the Geographe and Margaret River regions for a number of years. Drew said the most commonly used herbicide for arum lily in bushland settings is chlorsulfuron and he shared his insights for the safest and most efficient control method.
“Arum lily is the most widespread environmental weed in the region, it readily competes with native vegetation and significantly modifies ecosystems and habitats,” he said.
“The best time for spraying is when 50 to 70% of the plants are in flower – usually from August to October.
“Arum lily is relatively easy to control, but without control the plant rapidly spreads into and degrades adjoining properties and reserves.”
Drew also provided attendees with a checklist of considerations to help keep themselves, others and the environment safe when spraying for arum lily. Correct personal protection equipment is essential and people need to scope the target area carefully prior to spraying to avoid sensitive or rare plants and wet areas. Spraying should only be undertaken if wind is low and no rain is forecast for at least four hours.
Geographe Bay Catchment residents can purchase small amounts of appropriate herbicide from Pendrey Agency or Busselton Agricultural Services.
