Weed of the Month August

by Michelle Newall

Asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus) is a ground cover that can be found growing from the dunes to the hinterland. It grows well in most types of soil and can form thick masses out-competing all other vegetation.

The fruit is a small red berry that birds love and so it is easily spread. Removing this weed can be difficult as it covered in thorns. The root system grows as a large mat and has water storage tubers. The plant grows from a woody centre and this is the only part that needs removing to kill it. Pulling up the whole root system causes soil loss and disturbance that allows more weeds to grow.

To remove the woody centre take hold of the stems, but be careful of the thorns, and lightly pull and shake. Then cut in a cone shape around the base to cut off the roots. Secateurs work for smaller plants or use an old saw on the bigger ones. The stems can be cut off and left to decompose or if berries are present bin them. The centre will die if left out of the soil for long enough or put in the bin.