Integrating biological control with other weed management techniques: challenges, opportunities, and successes

Authors: Lake, Ellen; MINTEER, CAREY - University Of Florida; DAVID, AARON - Archbold Biological Station; HOUGH-GOLDSTEIN, JUDITH - University Of Delaware; SHROPSHIRE, KIMBERLEY - University Of Delaware

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/11/2021
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Biological control can be combined with other management techniques such as herbicide applications, prescribed burns, grazing, and plant competition. Integrating techniques may improve control of the target weed compared to the use of a single management method. A biological control agent that does not provide sufficient control of the target weed on its own may still play an important role in an integrated weed management strategy. Damage from biological control agents may increase the susceptibility of a weed to herbicide or fire. Additionally, integration may facilitate less frequent applications or the use of lower rates of herbicides. Steps must be taken to protect biological control agent populations during the implementation of other tactics, such as applying these techniques when the agent is not active or providing untreated refuges. Including plantings of competitive native vegetation can also contribute to suppression of the target weed, prevent secondary weed invasion, and increase the abundance of native plants. There is a need for increased integration of management tactics and more monitoring of the response of both the target weed and the plant community.

Technical Abstract: Biological control can be integrated with other management techniques such as herbicide applications, prescribed burns, grazing, and plant competition. Integration may result in improved management compared to the use of a single control method. A biological control agent that does not provide sufficient control of the target weed on its own may play an important role in an integrated weed management strategy. Damage from biological control agents may increase the susceptibility of a weed to herbicide or fire. Additionally, integration may facilitate less frequent applications or the use of lower rates of herbicides. Steps must be taken to protect biological control agent populations during the implementation of other tactics, such as applying these techniques when the agent is not active or providing untreated refugia. Including plantings of competitive native vegetation can also contribute to suppression of the target weed, prevent secondary weed invasion, and increase the abundance of native plants. There is a need for increased integration of management tactics as well as monitoring of the response of both the target weed and the plant community.