Patterson's Curse advice
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The purple-flowered Paterson’s curse (Echium plantagineum) has been in bloom throughout the shire recently.
This plant, whilst attractive looking, is a weed for several important reasons – one of them being its effect on grazing livestock.
Local weed authorities have been fielding enquiries regarding Patterson’s curse biocontrol and its lack of visibility.
You can save money and boost weed control this spring by checking Paterson’s curse plants for insect damage before spraying the weed.
There's a population boom of biocontrol insects, crown and root weevils, that can kill the weed. Drought conditions have reduced their populations and now they have the numbers to make an impact on weeds, so be patient, this could take up to 18 months.
Look for small shot holes in Paterson’s curse leaves. These holes mean crown and root weevils are on the job. If you find holes don’t spray Paterson’s curse. The weevils are hard at work.
Contact your local Council Weeds Officer on 6895 1900 or Central West Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 about grazing management and selective spraying to take care of biocontrol agents and manage Paterson's curse.