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Stewardship News -
Taking on bridal creeper with biocontrol
Bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) is once again re-sprouting across our region, with its bright lime-green leaf-like steams know as cladodes emerging throughout winter. While the fresh growth may look harmless, this invasive climber can quickly smother native vegetation if left unchecked.
Now is the ideal time to take action before bridal creeper begins producing its distinctive pea-sized red berries. A single square metre of infestation can produce up to 1,000 berries, each carrying seeds that help the weed spread further through the landscape.
Fortunately, there are several control options available, including biological control agents that specifically target bridal creeper. One of the most successful is bridal creeper rust fungus, which infects the plant’s leaves and stems, drawing on its nutrients and stunting growth. Over time, the fungus causes defoliation and weakens the underground tubers, reducing the plant’s ability to persist.
Have you heard of "spore water"?
You can often identify plants with rust fungus by the yellow or orange blotches on their leaves and the orange spores visible on the underside.
If you find infected plants, you can help spread this natural control by making “spore water” – a simple and effective DIY solution. Fill a bucket with rainwater, add a large handful of infected bridal creeper, mix well, then strain and spray the liquid onto healthy, uninfected bridal creeper plants. Applying it after rain can improve results.
Importantly, the rust fungus only infects bridal creeper, so there’s no risk of damage to native plants or garden species. Stewardship officers are keen to learn where populations of rust fungus exist in our region, to continue sharing the biocontrol with landholders. If you have rust fungus on your bridal creeper populations, please contact us.
Bridal creeper factsheet
Download our Five Steps to Effective Weed Control guide
Weeds are a common challenge across our region, affecting many landowners and managers. From woody shrubs to invasive bulbs, these plants threaten property health, native wildlife, and biodiversity.
By tackling weeds together, we can protect native vegetation, support local ecosystems, and keep our landscapes healthy for generations to come.
