BioControl

Gorse Management

Biocontrol uses natural enemies of gorse to control the weed. Biocontrol agents released in Victoria to date include the gorse soft shoot moth, gorse seed weevil, gorse spider mite and gorse thrips.

Their combined impact may reduce the abundance, growth rate and seeding capacity of gorse, however they will not eradicate gorse. Biological control is best suited for use in areas where the application of conventional control methods is inappropriate due to practical or environmental constraints.

Control Method Rating

Cost

Low | Medium | High

Efficacy

• • •

When

Biocontrol agents are introduced at different times depending on the agent. For information on biocontrol options, visit the Australian Biocontrol Hub or phone the Agriculture Victoria customer call centre on 136 186. Biocontrol works best if surrounding landowners also introduce the biocontrol agent.

Pros & Cons

An alternative control option for property owners avoiding heavy machinery and chemicals. Biocontrol agents will not attack other vegetation, but they have not succeeded in significantly reducing gorse in Victoria. Biocontrol agents will not establish themselves if the environmental conditions are not suitable. If you are trying biocontrol agents, you can’t adopt other gorse control approaches because they’ll kill the agents.

Follow up

Other treatment options will need to be considered if you are looking for a high level of control or working towards gorse eradication.

Other Control Methods

Herbicidal Control

Mechanical Control

Alternative Methods

More Information

Working with contractors for effective gorse management

Working with contractors (print-friendly version)

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Cultural Heritage Awareness

Landholders 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.

Disclaimer

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.

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.