Controlling swamp box
When treating swamp box (Lophostemon spp.), the best application method/herbicide will depend on the plant growth habit and the situation in which it occurs.
Controlling seedling regrowth in isolated patches and limited infestations
The most reliable control of swamp box up to 5 cm basal diameter is achieved via basal bark application with Access at a rate of 1:30 with diesel or Biosafe.
Treating areas of standing single or multi-stemmed plants
For control of Lophostemon spp. amongst eucalypt trees, Tordon RegrowthMaster, as a stem injection application, would be the best option, with no effect on the eucalypt trees. For larger plants greater than 1.5 m tall, stem injection or cut stump application would be a more cost-effective control measure.
Treating regrowth following mechanical clearing
Mechanical disturbance of Lophostemon spp. infestations normally creates a greater regrowth problem than was present beforehand, as multiple regrowth will occur from the original plant. If mechanical clearing has taken place, use fire as the first technique to reduce the biomass and control the lower branches of the plants. Use of herbicide, as a follow-up option, will not control the regrowth the first time – a number of applications may be required to control the regrowth.
Herbicides for control of swamp box
| Product# | Method of application | Rate* | State |
|---|
| Access® Herbicide |
Basal bark and Cut stump |
1:30 with diesel or Biosafe§ |
All |
| Tordon® RegrowthMaster Herbicide |
Cut stump |
1:20 with water + surfactant |
All |
| Tordon® RegrowthMaster Herbicide |
Stem injection |
1:4 with water – variable results |
All |
# Note: Preferred product option in bold. * Consult label for details of growth stage and use, especially where range of rates is given. § Biosafe – trademark used under licence, Victorian Chemical Co Pty Ltd.