Ochna serrulata (Mickey Mouse plant), is a notoriously difficult invasive species to control. It has a strong bent taproot making it very difficult to pull out. It easily resprouts from this root system even if the stem has been cut off. The best way to effectively kill Ochna serrulata is by applying herbicide directly to the stem after scraping away the bark, targeting the plant’s vascular system. For a quick guide for the best technique to control Ochna see below. You can also follow the link for a good how to video on controlling Ochna.
Materials Needed
- Sharp knife
- Herbicide (glyphosate 360 g/L)
- Herbicide applicator
- Gloves and protective clothing
Steps
- Remove seed
Before treatment remove any fruit/ seed from the plant and bag it for disposal.
- Scrape the Bark
Using a knife, scrape the bark off the stem, down to the green layer (cambium) from the base of the plant to approx. 10-20cm up the stem. For small stems do this on one side of the stem only, you do not want to ringbark the plant. For larger stems (approx. 2cm diam or larger) you can do a second scrape on the opposite side of the stem. For plants that branch close to the base, scrapes should be made up each branch. - Apply Herbicide Immediately
Within seconds of scraping, apply herbicide directly to the exposed cambium using a herbicide applicator. Ensure thorough coverage of the scraped area. - Leave the Plant Standing
Do not cut the stem. Leaving it intact allows the herbicide to translocate throughout the plant, killing the roots and preventing regrowth. - Monitor and Repeat if Needed
Check the plant after a few weeks. If regrowth occurs, repeat the process.
Tips
- Best done during active growth periods (spring to early autumn).
- Avoid rainy days to prevent herbicide wash-off.
