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Vegetation conversion to desirable species along Caltrans rights-of-ways.
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2008-12-01
[PDF-2.53 MB]
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Alternative Title:Evaluating alternative methods for vegetation control and maintenance along roadsides, study I.
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Abstract:This study evaluates several establishment sequences to determine effective ways to convert existing
annual non-native vegetation to native perennial species. Sustained weed control for several years is
shown to be required for vegetation conversion. No single treatment was sufficient, but each provided
different weed control characteristics. Burning provides control of non-native seeds and plants and
stimulates native perennial plant growth. Tillage prepares the seed bed, stimulates germination of
weed seed and provides soil volumes for root penetration. Ecotypic plant species are thought to be
adapted to different topographic zones away from the road edge. Herbicide use was important to
selectively reduce non-native annual plant species. Chemical treatments to control weeds included 1)
postemergence, non-selective (glyphosate), 2) postemergence, broadleaf selective (clopyralid) and 3)
preemergence, non-selective (chlorsulfuron). After vegetation conversion, herbicide use is shown to
be reduced or eliminated except for occasional weed control. After three years of cultural and
chemical management, we found native perennial grasses most abundant in sites that had been burned
once and sprayed at least twice. In established roadside stands of native perennial grasses, a
combination of spraying, mowing and/or burning for two consecutive years is required to reduce or
eliminate non-native, invasive species, such as yellow starthistle. Once established, native perennial
grass stands can persist for more than a decade and remain relatively weed resistant.
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