Effects of mechanical and chemical control on invasive <i>Spartina alterniflora</i> in the Yellow River Delta, China

Abstract

<i>Spartina alterniflora</i> is one of the most noxious invasive plants in China and many other regions. Exploring environmentally friendly, economic and effective techniques for controlling <i>Spartina alterniflora</i> is of great significance for the management of coastal wetlands. In the present study, different approaches, including mowing and waterlogging, mowing and tilling and herbicide application, were used to control <i>Spartina alterniflora</i>. The results suggest that the integrated approach of mowing and waterlogging could eradicate <i>Spartina alterniflora</i>, the herbicide haloxyfop-r-methyl could kill almost all the <i>Spartina alterniflora</i>, and the integrated approach of mowing and tilling at the end of the growing season was a perfect way to inhibit the germination of <i>Spartina alterniflora</i> in the following year. However, no matter which control approach is adopted, secondary invasion of <i>Spartina alterniflora</i> must be avoided. Otherwise, all the efforts will be wasted in a few years.