Learn about the methods we use to treat weeds and how to add your property to our No Spray Register if you don't want Council to spray for weeds.
On this page
Our approach
We use several methods of weed control in Yarra depending on the location.
Glyphosate-based herbicide
Where we use this method
- Laneways
- Footpaths
- Kerb and channel
- Tree squares
- Street garden beds
- Park garden beds
- Park mulched tree beds
Why we use this method
In these large-scale locations, glyphosate-based herbicide is the most effective and efficient product available.
We spot-spray to minimise use and we find that most of Yarra's invasive plants respond well to spot-spraying at the minimum concentration. We use this product sparingly and closely track our herbicide use. We have found that over the last 12-months we used 87% less glyphosate-based concentrate than the recommended label usage.
According to available information, there is very little run-off from glyphosate based herbicide and in most cases the product begins to break down and be absorbed by the soil immediately. Within a few days, the effects in soil become harmless to vegetation.
We do not spray on windy days.
Glyphosate-based herbicide is approved by The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. Alternative products require much higher concentrations to be effective and there is little scientific data available for alternative products.
Specialised herbicides
Including some limited use of glyphosate-based herbicide
Where we use this method
- Natural habitats
Why we use this method
In natural habitats we use specialised products, most of which are not glyphosate-based.
We use glyphosate-based herbicide only when there is not an effective or efficient alternative and to mitigate against the risk of losing significant biodiversity because of weeds.
Manual removal
Where we use this method
- Playgrounds
Why we use this method
We manually remove weeds in playgrounds. This is possible because of the relative small scale of these locations and is desirable because of the high levels of community activity.
Manual removal is not suitable for larger areas.
No Spray Register
In large-scale areas such as laneways and footpaths, Council uses a glysophate-based herbicide for weed treatment.
Property owners can request for their property to be added to a No Spray Register if they do not want Council to spray for weeds. Please note if your address is added to the No Spray Register you will be required to remove the weeds around your property.
If you would like to be added to the No Spray Register please email us at [email protected].