Asparagus is fighting a losing battle

The asparagus fern is losing its battle to take over Samford’s bushland thanks to an army of local volunteers.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Minister Andrew McNamara said community members had done a fantastic job over the past year ridding the area of more than two tonnes of weeds.

“EPA volunteers have provided good old-fashioned elbow grease in the battle against weeds invading the Samford Forest Reserve,” Mr McNamara said.

“The asparagus fern can take over, smothering native vegetation. It’s harmful to our native insects, birds and animals.

“EPA volunteers have worked more than 400 hours removing weeds like this to protect native flora and fauna.”

The EPA is encouraging property owners to remove the asparagus fern and other weeds from their gardens to help prevent them from spreading.

Mr McNamara said that native plants were the best replacements for the asparagus fern.

“Plants such as midyim, spinyhead matrush, blue flax lily and coffee bush will look good and aren’t harmful to the environment,” he said.

If you are interested in becoming an EPA volunteer or would like to report weed infestation please contact the EPA on 1 300 130 372 or visit the EPA website at www.epa.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002