Consol lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula complex) controls spiny burrgrass (Cenchrus spp.) in south-western New South Wales

Abstract

Experiments established 30 km north and 30 km south of Urana N.S.W. in 1980 and 198 1, on areas heavily infested with spiny burrgrass, showed that lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula) varieties Consol and accession 4660 were more easily and reliably established than buffel grass or lucerne. Lovegrass persisted up to 1988 and continued to spread, despite 3 extremely dry summer periods and uncontrolled grazing. It achieved virtual control of spiny burrgrass after 4 years. Lucerne failed to persist in 3 out of 4 sowings, and only persisted where phosphorus had been applied. Lovegrass density was highest where fertiliser was not applied. Lovegrass can be recommended for controlling spiny burrgrass on infertile, sandy textured soils in low rainfall environments where the use of lucerne is uneconomic or its establishment and management are difficult.