Fire

Fire will remove serrated tussock biomass but will not kill mature plants and only control about 25 per cent of the seed bank. Consult and alert your local Country Fire Authority before burning. Vigorous follow-up control is essential to control germinating seedlings and any regenerating plants. Do not use glyphosate after fire until the weed has grown enough to absorb the chemical. Do not burn areas treated with flupropanate for one to two years after application as fire removes herbicide residue from the soil.

Control Method Rating

Cost	Low Medium High
Efficacy	• • •

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When

It’s best to burn serrated tussock in late autumn to late winter to reduce seed set.

Pros and cons

Burning rejuvenates native grasslands and may reduce the serrated tussock seedbank. However, fire can encourage serrated tussock to grow vigorously and produce more seed the following year. Fire may also reduce the seedbank of desirable competing species. Infestations of mature serrated tussock are a fire risk and should be burnt with extreme caution.

Follow up

Follow-up work is essential to prevent growth of serrated tussock plants and seedlings. The seedbank of desired plant species must be sufficient to compete with serrated tussock. Do not use glyphosate after fire until the weed has grown enough to absorb the chemical.

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Cultural Heritage AwarenessLandholders must be careful to avoid further damage to the environment (including waterways) and Aboriginal cultural heritage sites when using machinery. Be aware of your legal obligations and obtain the necessary permits. Aboriginal Cultural Heritage may be found during works at any time, at any place. If suspected heritage is discovered, work is to cease and a Preliminary Report Form must be completed and sent to vahr@dpc.vic.gov.au. If you are unsure, seek advice from Agriculture Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, First Peoples – State Relations (formerly Aboriginal Victoria) or your local council.

The information provided by this website is intended for general information only and should not be relied on or used as a substitute for professional advice for your particular situation.

Before undertaking any weed or rabbit management, always obtain advice from a qualified expert, with respect to your own situation. Always read and follow the label before using any of the products mentioned and ensure that you are undertaking weed and rabbit management in the appropriate conditions and in the appropriate manner.

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