Vegetation control

Weed control is crucial on most sites. Lack of weed control in the early years is the most common cause of poor performance and plantation failure.

• When: April – June
• Why: light, water and nutrients competition between trees and weeds
• Control: manual or chemical control

Manual control

Trampling involves stamping on weeds around the trees:

• Suitable for the control of tall weeds such as nettles, bracken, rush and tall grasses
• Prevents weeds smothering young trees
• Trampling is often a short term measure
• Delayed weed control will require trampling before spraying

Chemical control

Chemical control involves the use of an appropriate herbicide:

• The choice of herbicide depends on the type of weeds, the tree species, site type and the time of year
• Broadleaves are more susceptible than conifers to damage from herbicide drift, so careful application is essential
• Chemical control can lead to a boost in tree growth, especially for species such as ash and sycamore

Types of vegetation and herbicides

Relevant publication:

• Farm Forestry Series No. 2: Vegetation Control in Farm Forestry (PDF)

Remember: Weed control should be carried out at the start of the growing season