This information is relevant across Victoria. Notable areas of Serrated Tussock are around Melbourne, Ballarat and Geelong.  

• Serrated Tussock grows in a variety of habitats and tolerates a range of conditions 

• It can completely dominate habitat and pasture within seven years 

• It is a major threat to grazing areas as it is unpalatable to livestock 

• It is a major threat to critically endangered native grasslands 

• Serrated Tussock spreads via wind-blown seeds which can also attach to livestock, clothing and vehicles 

• It establishes particularly well in disturbed habitat or overgrazed pasture. It does not establish well in shaded areas 

• Grasses can be difficult to identify, and Serrated Tussock is similar to many indigenous grass species. Check with an expert or your Trust for Nature manager if you are unsure about identification 

• Follow chemical use regulations when using herbicide  

Prevention 

• Preventing spread of Serrated Tussock is the most cost-effective method for managing Serrated Tussock 

• Manage movement of livestock, vehicles and people in areas with Serrated Tussock 

• Ensure vehicles, tools and clothing are clean if working in areas with Serrated Tussock 

Chemical control 

• Using herbicide such as glyphosate to spray onto growing plants 

• Spray plants before seeding (late spring-summer) 

• Vary use of types of herbicides such as to prevent plants developing resistance 

Physical control 

• Small plants and patches can be removed using a mattock 

• Monitor areas where Serrated Tussock is present and being controlled 

• Follow-up control where needed 

• Maintaining and improving habitat can prevent Serrated Tussock establishing 

• Revegetate trees in areas where they have been lost to increase shade 

• Work with other landholders and community groups to control Serrated Tussock across landscape 

• Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party 
• Serrated Tussock – Weeds Australia