Birds, Bees and Butterflies Urban Weeds Walks
An introduction to weeds in your garden, control techniques and replacing them with native species.
- LEP-028-001
The issue
The primary issue identified was the lack of knowledge and confidence of suburban backyard owners in recognising, correctly identifying and treating weeds in their backyards to stop the spread of weeds further afield, and also knowing what native (endemic) species to plant in gardens instead. Many backyard owners do not recognise the sometimes statewide or national effects of weeds beyond their garden gates, and how their decisions to plant endemic plants can lessen the effects of weeds further afield, and that by growing endemic plants in their gardens, they encourage more native wildlife (birds, bees and butterflies) back into suburbia.
The solution
Hunter Region Landcare Network (HRLN) hosted a series of Urban Weeds Walks titled ‘Birds, Bees and Butterflies’. This initiative was supported by Hunter Local Land Services (HLLS) and Singleton Shire Council (SSC). Fortnightly afternoon guided walks around the suburban Singleton LGA were led by HLLS Regional Weeds Coordinator Matt Kennedy or HRLN Upper Hunter Coordinator Paul Melehan. Weeds in suburban backyards were identified with integrated weed management techniques being discussed. Endemic plants were then identified and discussed as suitable substitutes to weeds to help encourage native fauna back into suburban areas. Endemic tubestock were available for participants to take home and plant, a raffle was drawn with the winner receiving a packet of native flower seeds to plant at home and afternoon tea was provided giving the opportunity for participants to network after the walks.
The impact
Participants were locals, who were able to take advice and information gained from the walks back to their own properties and successfully identify and treat weeds to help stop the spread. Participants left with identification techniques of native (endemic) plants and a greater understanding of the importance and knowledge of how to care for these species in their gardens to promote and encourage more local fauna (birds, bees and butterflies) into the area.
Key facts
- Participants learned weed and native plant identification skills and integrated weed management techniques.
- Four walks were conducted in the Singleton LGA.