Weeds - Plants out of place

What is a weed? The best way to describe a weed is 'a plant growing in the wrong place'. Weeds are plants that are unwanted in designated locations and that may be harmful, dangerous or economically detrimental. Weeds can be divided into three groups: » Declared Noxious Weeds » Environmental Weeds » Agricultural Weeds

Serrated tussock is an agricultural weed

A Declared Noxious Weed is a plant that has been identified in legislation (an Act of Parliament). It is a legal requirement that these weeds be eradicated or controlled. Within this weed group there are four different categories based on the following criteria: 
1. The level of threat the weed has for agriculture, the environment, recreation values and activities, and community health. 
2. Benefits to the community as a result of control of the weed. 
3. Availability of a practical means of treatment and control. 
4. Active community support for management of the weed. 

Environmental Weeds are plants that threaten natural ecosystems. When these weeds spread into native plant communities there can be a reduction of plant diversity and a loss of habitat for native animals. 

Agricultural Weeds threaten crops, horticulture and pasture production and may also be declared noxious weeds. 

How weeds spread 
Weeds are spread in many different ways depending on the type of plant. Some ways that weeds can be spread: in seed purchased for sowing pastures or crops; stock feed; movement of stock; machinery use; soil disturbance; humans; birds and animals; garden escapees; water and wind; explosive ejection (when seed pods burst open, seeds can travel up to 5 metres) and vegetative. 
Once we know how a weed spreads, preventative measures can be taken to reduce the spread and the effect on the environment and agriculture.
Refer to www.dse.vic.gov.au - Click on search and type in 'how weeds spread'. 

How to control weeds
Weeds can be managed using many different methods. The selected methods depend on the species of plants and their biological characteristics. The most effective management is usually achieved by a combination of various methods together with a thorough follow-up campaign, including education. To control a weed, it must be correctly identified first. 
Refer to www.dse.vic.gov.au - Click on search and type in 'how to manage weeds'.

Resources 
Useful Websites: 
»www.dse.vic.gov.au click on search and type in 'how to manage weeds'
»www.weeds.org.au

Books:
»Jeannie Baker - The Story of Rosy Dock, Random House 1995. 
»Catchment Education Resource Book (1998) Department of Natural Resources and Environment 
»Our Land - Landcare Activities for Upper Primary - National Soil Conservation Program