What to do when fires fuel weeds.

摘要

The ecological effects of wildfires are typically beneficial given the natural role of fire in perpetuating ecosystems. This paper presents a step-by-step guide for managing invasive plants after a wildfire: (1) natural recovery potential; (2) revegetation; and (3) formulation of a burned area weed management plan. Preventing invasive plants from establishing into weed-free burned areas is the most effective and economical method of weed management. Since invasive plants can rapidly expand after fire, a thorough early detection programme is essential. Eradicating small patches adjacent to a burned area can prevent or greatly limit seed dispersal into the site. There are four management methods directed by an integrated weed management plan that, when combined as necessary, can be effective in managing large infestations: mowing, herbicides, cultural control, and in some cases, biological control.