Hop Tran

Citation

Thesis Title
The Ecology and Integrated Management of Broom(Cytisus scoparius) In New Zealand Plantation Forests

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a major weed in New Zealand pine plantations. Mr Tran examined seed germination from the dense and persistent seed bank that develops in broom-infested pine forests and outlasts the pine harvesting cycle to identify the key stages for effective control. He showed that over-sowing grasses can control broom seedlings, but only if the grass sward is well established before the broom germinates. Existing broom seedlings need to be controlled by herbicides that kill the broom but not the grasses, and which leave residues in the soil that kill any further new seedlings as they germinate. If broom has already established with the pines, it needs to be removed using selective herbicides that kill broom plants without harming young pines, and Mr Tran found several viable options. For successful long-term control, broom needs to be managed in an integrated way, using herbicides and ground covers.

Supervisors
Professor Alastair Robertson
Dr Michael Watt
Associate Professor Kerry Harrington