Wildlife friendly weed management
While lovely manicured gardens completely free of weeds may appeal to some people; they don't provide a very safe space for wildlife. By heavily spraying your lawns and gardens, you may even kill beneficial insects and attract pests! There are alternatives to chemical sprays such as: pyrethrum, vinegar, hot water, or using mulch and ground covers to prevent weed growth. Rethink how you view weeds - some plants that are considered weeds are actually edible and beneficial for us and wildlife
That said, there are pest plants that are invasive, causing a threat to natural habitats, and may need to be controlled using chemicals. Key culprits in the Bay of Plenty are Wild Ginger, Lantana, Moth plant and Woolley nightshade. Check out the Regional Council website for local advice on pest plants and their management: Regional Council Pest Plants
Disposal of Greenwaste
- Please don't throw green waste over your back fence or dump in reserves - there is a good chance they will regrow! Contact your local district council for green waste disposal options in your area for pest plants and invasive weeds.
- Use your 'waste' as a resource! For general green waste like lawn clippings, tree trimmings (not pest plants and invasive weeds) you could leave piles around your garden for habitat for wildlife, or use it to make compost.
- It is possible to compost some weeds - check out our website for links to great resources.