Media Release 30 November 2010

Chilean Needle Grass Alert

November to January is the best time for rural property owners and managers to keep an eye out for Chilean needle grass in pastures, as it's easiest to identify it during this period.

During this period, the pest plant forms a very distinctive seed head which can grow to a height of up to 1 metre tall. During the rest of the year, it's nearly impossible to spot amongst other pasture or grass species.

Property owners or managers who suspect Chilean needle grass is growing on their property should aim to identify the plant during the next couple of months while it is seeding, rather than ignore it and have a potential problem in the future.

Once established, this plant is very difficult to control so it is very important to identify it at an early stage of infestation. It prefers to grow on dry, northerly or westerly facing aspects of land.

"The pest plant is already found in some areas in Hawke's Bay and the Regional Council and farmers want to stop it spreading," said Darin Underhill, biosecurity team leader- plant pest.

The seed of this plant is particularly troublesome, causing pelt damage and painful wounds to animals. The seed can move further into the body muscles causing abscesses and resultant downgrading of carcasses. If seeds penetrate an animal's eyes it can cause blindness.

Control methods are varied and can include mowing, hard grazing, spraying, forestry and grubbing.

Property owners or managers can talk to Hawke's Bay Regional Council Biosecurity Plant Pest Officers by phoning 0800 108 838 for advice on identifying the plant and on the best methods to control this plant for their given situation.

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