Pull Weeds

There are a large number of weeds that outcompete our native plants – we call these ‘pest plants’. They are a real problem for Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland. Pest plants are easily spread around the region, especially if they have fruit that our birds like to eat.  By pulling these weeds and replacing them with natives, we’ll help bring the beautiful birdsong back into our yards.

Learn how to remove pest plants with Ranger Glenn

Some of the worst offending weeds

These are just some of the weeds you should keep an eye out for across the region (click the images for more information):

Monkey apple

Tree privet

Climbing Asparagus

Woolly nightshade

How to control these weeds

• Identify the weeds to make sure you’re removing the right type of plant. Check out Pest Search for more information.
• Remove weeds following the Pest Search recommendations, for example:
  • Dig out the plant including the root system
  • It’s easier to pull the plant out when the ground is wet or damp
  • For larger plants cut and treat the stump with herbicide paste or spray (follow product instructions and wear protective gear)
  • Cut vines and immediately apply herbicide paste or spray to the remaining ends
  • Remove and dispose of fruit
  • Ring bark and leave plant to die if it is safe to do so (large trees must not be ringbarked that are closer than 1.5 times the height of the trees from paths, walkways and property).
• Dispose of weeds carefully to avoid further spread – check ‘Pest Search’ for guidance. Check here for community weed bins.
• If your weeding leaves the ground bare, replant the area with natives or cover it with mulch as soon as possible to slow weeds from coming back. It will also become a home for worms and insects for our birds to eat.

Handy tips

• If your neighbours also have weeds, it’s more effective to work together.
• Connect with your local community conservation group for further advice and support.
• Make it achievable – if you’re only able to remove flowers and seed pods that will still help reduce the spread.

If you want to learn more about controlling pest plants click here.