Control of bracken (Pteridium esculentum) in Tasmania using wiper application of metsulfuron methyl and glyphosate
K.R. YoungA and P.W.G. SaleB
A CRC for Weed Management Systems, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
B Department of Agricultural Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.
Summary
Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) was effectively controlled for 2.5 years using metsulfuron methyl with and without the addition of glyphosate, applied by a wiper. Wiper application gave more immediate control and there was less regrowth at the end of the experiment compared with sprayed treatments. A mixture of metsulfuron methyl and glyphosate applied through a wiper gave the best results, with up to 95% bracken control. Further investigations of wiper application using a mixture of metsulfuron methyl and glyphosate at seven sites around Tasmania, gave greater than 85% control of bracken when assessed 10 months after application. Results show that only a single pass with a carpet type wiper is required for bracken control. Control of bracken was achieved with applications from January through to May (mid summer through till autumn).
Plant Protection Quarterly (1999) 14 (2) 63-67.