As a single method, herbicide application is the most effective technique in reducing Phragmites and is recommended as the primary method for eradication. Two broad-spectrum herbicides, glyphosate and imazapyr are commercially available and known to control Phragmites effectively when used properly (Avers et al. 2014). Regardless of the herbicide used, one-time applications are never 100 % effective ((Hazelton et al. 2014). Although some studies suggest imazypyr alone or in combination with glyphosate can control Phragmites for longer periods of time, the use of herbicides in conjunction with other follow-up physical and or mechanical methods have produced better results (Avers et al. 2014). These follow-up methods will not only help provide …show more content…
Mechanical methods may be effective at reducing Phragmites spread and encouraging native plant growth. Although some studies have shown that mowing alone does little to reduce Phragmites dominance and actually stimulates shoot production and stand density, it enhances control efforts when used as secondary treatment, usually following herbicide use (Hazelton et al. 2014). A combination of chemical and mechanical methods is ideal for achieving best results. Pre-herbicide and post-herbicide mowing techniques—with mowing conducted at least 4 weeks prior to and 2 weeks after herbicide application—may improve the likelihood of success when done properly, ideally reducing Phragmites stem height and eliminating new Phragmites growth (Avers et al. …show more content…
australis control is to block P. australis by planting native marsh species at the key points on the major routes of P. australis invasion (Wang et al. 2006). Such methods can provide a potential, herbicide-free or mechanical-free technique to eradicate Phragmites stands, especially in sensitive habitats. Field experiments in tidal marshes have shown that native plants, though smaller, can slow the recolonization of Phragmites seedlings (Hazelton et al. 2014). Wang et al. showed that the vegetation strategy can be effective in controlling the P. australis by restricting or inhibiting its