Ragwort control with herbicides and fertilisers: first year's results

Abstract

Several combinations of N, P and K fertilisers and the herbicides 2,4-D or glyphosate were tested in conjunction with conservation tillage for ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) control in a low fertility hill country pasture. The trial started in March 1988 and assessments have been made for 12 months. Results so far have shown that development of a dense competitive sward by adequate fertiliser is essential to miuimise the ragwort infestation. The combination of 2,4-D and phosphate fertiliser resulted in the best sward composition and growth, and allowed the least re-invasion of ragwort into the pasture. Keywords Senecio jacobaea, 2,4-D, glyphosate, fertilisers, NPK, chemical control, herbicides, dairy pastures, pasture renovation