Have you started to notice that some of our weeds are having a field day with these changing weather patterns?

Prolonged dry periods, warmer temperatures, and more variable rainfall are creating ideal conditions for weeds to establish, spread, and outcompete desirable pasture species. Disturbance from extreme weather events, whether drought or heavy rainfall, can also leave ground bare, giving weeds the opportunity to quickly establish and take advantage.

Across the Hills and Fleurieu, we are already seeing this play out. Unseasonal warm weather and rainfall events are driving bursts of weed growth at unusual times of year. In particular, African lovegrass is responding strongly to these conditions. This invasive pasture weed is well suited to warm climates and is increasingly moving into paddocks, roadside reserves, and parklands.

As highlighted in national research on weeds and climate change, these trends are likely to continue, meaning landholders will need to stay vigilant. Early detection and timely control will be critical to keeping weeds like African lovegrass in check.

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