Bridal Creeper

Stopping Bridal Creep! Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides)  This creeper is a declared noxious weed (Restricted) across the state competes above ground with a smothering impenetrable web of stems and below ground with a thick mat of tubers. In the 1870’s this was a common garden plant and was popular for wedding bouquets’ and hanging baskets, and has since spread widely from gardens into bushland threatening native species Bridal creeper spreads by birds who love the sweet red berries produced late spring and also re shoots from rhizomes beneath the soil at or before the onset of autumn. Growth ceases in November to December and plants turn yellow and die back down to the rhizome. The plant survives below ground until the following autumn.

An undetected infestation of this weed can have a devastating effect on natural bushland, gardens, and farmland and can be very difficult to eliminate due to the underground rhizomes and tubers.

Control methods can include carefully digging removing tubers although this is very difficult once well established, spraying with an appropriate herbicide and biological control. Two methods of biological control available is the leafhopper and rust fungus. The introduction of the rust fungus has proven to be very effective completely defoliating infested sites.

Currently there is approximately five sites in the South Gippsland region where bridal creeper has been detected. Undoubtedly there will be sites that are undetected. South Gippsland Landcare, Friends groups and other concerned agencies are currently attempting to detect all sites in the region and will be undertaking large scale rust release program in cooperation with our shire neighbours this coming season. Anyone who suspects they have seen bridal creeper can you please ring me with a location or if you would like further information or identification.