CLIMBING ASPARAGUS & WILDING PINES


A reminder to for locals and visitors to keep an eye out for Climbing Asparagus also known as Asparagus fern, Mesophyll scandens which is starting to come into flower.

There are now 4 known infestations on Aotea and it’s a weed we want to keep out. It smothers native vegetation, prevents seedling establishment, reduces native plant abundance and species richness and facilitates weed invasion. It may also increase erosion through canopy loss. With Aotea’s regenerating nature this weed poses a huge threat to the Island. 

You can see it taking over coastal forest bush below at Leigh below! We don’t wan it ever to get to this point on Aotea!

Photo Credit: Nik Erikson


Aotea is renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity, but the spread of wilding conifers and other pest plant species poses a significant threat to its natural ecosystems.

If you want to play a part in the fight against wilding pines and other pest plants on the Motu, Auckland Council has the tools and resources needed to protect and enhance your piece of paradise.

We currently have everything from electric drills and drench packs for drill and fill control, a variety of manual tools including weed bags and cut and paste options.

We are happy to give you onsite advise on how to get started.

You can find more able the Aotea Conifer Programme story in the video link:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=481129294635620

Contact: pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more info.

You can find more able the Aotea Conifer Programme story in the video link:

Contact: pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more info.

Words by Niklas Erikson, Senior Conservation Advisor

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