Silverleaf nightshade is a common summer growing noxious weed that has caused problems for many farmers over a long period.
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It is an introduced perennial that can dominate pastures and cropping areas. It can reduce crop yields by as much as 20- 40% by taking moisture and nutrients over summer and autumn that could otherwise be used by the following crops. In pasture paddocks it can reduce growth of productive species and render areas useless for livestock grazing. It reproduces from both seed and root fragments so can be difficult to control by conventional means. Many common farm activities such as livestock movement and cultivation will spread this weed. Laboratory tests have shown that all parts of the plant are toxic but stock are usually reluctant to eat the leaves but will often nibble the berries if there is not other feed available.
Silverleaf nightshade is often not specifically targeted as it occurs in many situations as scattered infestations. It has been a frustration for many farmers that efforts to control it have failed and it has spread to other areas of the farm. It commonly occurs on many neglected paddocks, particularly with absentee owners or on small, hobby farms around regional towns and these areas provide seed banks that are spread to adjoining areas.
Recent research has shown that a systematic “Dual Action” approach over the growing season from spring to autumn is needed. In many cases more expensive residual herbicides may be required to be used in conjunction with normal summer weed programs to give effective control of silverleaf nightshade. For long term control a competitive pasture or crop is needed to choke out the weed and reduce the moisture and nutrients that it can access. There is also evidence that several eucalypt species compete well and prevent the weed from establishing.
A new MLA funded project will utilise the Landcare networks, private agronomists and farmer groups to build local knowledge and capacity and to foster the adoption of the research by farm communities. As part of the project a grower survey will give information about how farmers have dealt with this weed in the past and what influences them to change practices. If you would like to assist with this survey, here is a link to the website…it will only take a few minutes and give valuable background on this weed (https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SLN2014)
If you would like more information about silverleaf nightshade management, please contact Phil Bowden at Cootamundra, 0427 201 946.