The impact of timing and duration of grass control on growth of a young Eucalyptus globulus Labill. plantation

Interference by an introduced grass, Holcus lanatus L. (Yorkshire fog grass) in a young E. globulus (Tasmanian blue gum) plantation was investigated. The objectives were to determine (1) the 'critical period' of competition, and (2) how the timing and duration of competition was related to the interaction between tree growth and resource availability. This was investigated during the first two years of establishment. Weed interference was severe with height and diameter growth of weedy trees being 52% and 40% of weed-free trees, respectively, at age two years. Most growth losses occurred during the first year. The critical period of weed interference was from planting to age 18 m and effective weed control was required for this period to maximise tree growth potential. The application of nitrogen to weedy trees promoted a significant growth response suggesting that competition for nitrogen was occurring. There was no significant response to level of irrigation. The use of critical period analysis is discussed.