Photo/Supplied
New Zealand - July 10, 2024 – Native Restorations, a leading advocate for native plant conservation, is proud to
announce the launch of "Wattle Awareness Month." This initiative aims to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of
pest wattle plants on New Zealand's ecosystems and provide guidance on effective eradication methods.
"Wattles are blooming everywhere, and while they may look beautiful, they pose a significant threat to our native
bushlands," says Terence Stewart, Founder and Owner of Native Restorations. "It's crucial that we educate homeowners and
landowners about the dangers of these invasive species and how to properly remove them to protect our unique flora and
fauna."
Native Plants in New Zealand
Native wattle plants, such as the manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and kowhai (Sophora species), are integral to New
Zealand's biodiversity. "These native species evolved in isolation over millions of years, leading to a high level of
endemism. They play a vital role in our ecosystems by providing habitat and food for native birds and insects," explains
Stewart.
The Problem with Pest Wattles
Pest wattles, primarily invasive Australian species like Acacia dealbata (silver wattle) and Acacia mearnsii (black
wattle), grow rapidly and outcompete native plants for resources. "These species disrupt the ecological balance, leading
to reduced biodiversity, increased fire risks, and soil erosion," warns Stewart. "It's essential to address these issues
promptly to safeguard our native vegetation."
Identifying and Removing Pest Wattles
Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata)
Recognizable by its silvery-grey foliage and bright yellow, globular flower heads. It flowers from late winter to early
spring and forms dense thickets.
Black Wattle (Acacia mearnsii)
Features dark green, feathery leaves and small, yellow flower clusters. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and spreads
quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to EradicationHand Pulling Young Wattles: Target small, young plants and hand-pull or dig them out with minimal soil disturbance.Cutting and Treating Older Trees: Cut the tree trunk to ground level, remove green growth, and apply herbicide (e.g.,
metsulfuron-methyl or triclopyr) to the stump.
Chemical Methods for removal include:Ring Barking
Remove a 15 cm wide sleeve of bark around the tree and apply herbicide to the cambium layer.Drill and Fill
Drill downward-angled holes into the trunk, fill with herbicide.Flitching with an Axe
Create notches around the tree’s circumference, fill with herbicide.
**Important Considerations**Safety: Wear protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when handling herbicides.
Environmental Impact: Follow local guidelines to minimize environmental impact and avoid using herbicides during windy
or rainy conditions.
Persistence: Some species are resilient, requiring repeated applications for complete eradication.
Promoting Native Plant Species
"After removing pest wattles, it's important to replace them with native species that support biodiversity," says
Stewart. Recommended native plants include:Pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa)Kowhai (Sophora species)Harakeke (Phormium tenax)Nikau Palm (Rhopalostylis sapida)
Get Involved
"We encourage everyone to participate in Wattle Awareness Month by sharing their efforts to plant native species and
remove pest wattles," Stewart concludes. "Head over to our Facebook page to share your images and stories."
For more information, visit Native Restorations Website: https://www.native-restorations.com