Forestry and native vegetation

Trees and shrubs compete with serrated tussock and reduce the movement of seeds across the landscape. Seek advice from farm forestry advisors on the best species and methods for your area and goals. Fencing is needed to keep stock off the land and rabbit control is vital.

Control Method Rating
CostLow Medium High
Efficacy• • •
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When

Planting trees and shrubs is a good option to control serrated tussock where pasture cannot be established, such as steep gorges and inaccessible areas, erosion-prone soils, creeks and valleys. Autumn is generally the best time, as it gives the plant time to establish itself before the next summer.

Pros and cons

Plantations may reduce serrated tussock infestations while producing income. Trees provide a windbreak and so reduce the risk of wind-spread serrated tussock seed. Trees also provide habitat, encourage biodiversity, increase the environmental health of your land and can earn carbon credits. However, farm forestry is labour intensive and a long-term investment and takes many years to reach canopy closure and supress serrated tussock growth. If trees are harvested there is a risk of serrated tussock re-establishing. Plantations may also harbour pest animals. Plantations are a long-term investment and alternative source of income.

Follow up

Spot spray and manage plant growth around establishing trees to encourage best growth and rapid canopy closure.

More Control Methods
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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.

We do not guarantee this website is without flaw of any kind, or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes, and therefore disclaim all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information contained on the website for any purpose.

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This project is an initiative of the Victorian Gorse Taskforce, the Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party and the Victorian Rabbit Action Network and is funded a project by the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper in collaboration with Agriculture Victoria.