Lantana
Why is Lantana considered a problem?
Lantana forms impenetrable thickets that blanket entire hillsides of neglected pastures in warmer climates of increased rainfall. The species tends to alter the structural and floral composition of native ecosystems, leading to its complete dominance of the understorey vegetation. The environmental and agricultural implications of its invasive presence include:
→ Out competition and exclusion of native pastures
→ Loss of other nearby desirable species due to allelopathic properties
→ Disruption of the succession cycle in regrowing forests
→ Reduction in yields or hinders harvesting in forestry plantations
→ Blocks the movement of both cattle and graziers
→ Toxins in the leaves and seeds of many varieties are poisonous to livestock
→ Burns readily and increases wildfire intensity
FACT: Recent research has indicated that more than 1400 native plant species are negatively affected by the invasion of Lantana, including many endangered and threatened species.
Click here to download a copy of the Lantana Technical Notes.
Controlling Lantana with Method 240SL
Method® 240SL Herbicide supports graziers in reclaiming and restoring pastoral land through the control of Lantana and other problematic broadleaf, brush, and woody weeds (e.g. Prickly Acacia, Mesquite, African Boxthorn):
→ A new class of chemistry which provides systemic control of the target weed by disrupting cellular division and growth.
→ Easy-to-use, unscheduled formulation that offers a convenient solution for the management of Lantana and other woody weeds.
→ Potassium salt (KCl) formulation with enhanced foliar and root absorption.
→ Highly systemic both laterally and vertically in the treated plant.
The foliar application of Method 240SL is recommended for plants less than two metres in height (see label rates below). Use sufficient spray volume to thoroughly wet all foliage and stems of the target weed to the point of runoff. It is also important to use a nozzle configuration and pressure that ensures good canopy penetration.
Treatment Tips For Best Results
Important Product Considerations For The Herbicidal Control Of Lantana
In most cases, it is recommended that lighter infestations (<50 plants/ha) are addressed first to make the eventual control of more established populations manageable.
- A larger infestation (>150 plants/ha) can be initially reduced by mechanical methods (e.g. dozing, slashing, or stickraking) or fire and followed by spot treatments with Method® 240SL Herbicide. In situations involving regrowth, ensure vegetation has had time to sufficiently regrow, especially those which have been bulldozed, slashed, burnt, ploughed, or had a previous chemical treatment to ensure adequate foliage for herbicide uptake.
- This flowering shrub is highly prolific (~12,000 seeds per plant) and seed banks remain viable for at least four years. This means that the additional control of seedlings is vital to ensure that initial management efforts on the parent plant are not squandered.
- Variable results may be due to inconsistent application methods, mix rates, or seasonal factors. The red-flowered and pink-edged, red-flowered lantana varieties also have comparatively smaller, tougher leaves and are often considered the most difficult to control – a higher application rate may be required for mortality.
- The removal of grazing animals from treated areas is recommended because the leaves of stressed plants often have increased sugar-levels and are more palatable.
Stewardship
DO NOT apply Method® 240SL Herbicide in a manner that may cause an unacceptable impact to native vegetation, agricultural crops, landscaped gardens and aquaculture production, or cause contamination of plant or livestock commodities. It is the responsibility of the landowner and/or applicator to follow the label directions, restrictions, and stewardship requirements. The herbicide label provides critical information on the safe, legal, and effective use of the herbicide and all applicators must complete the Method 240SL Stewardship Training prior to use.
Tank Mixing
Trial Results
Speak To Our Team
Contact our team of experts to discuss how Method® 240SL can support the control of Lantana on your land or call our customer service line on:
03 7019 3839.