In ponds they are useful and decorative, but in pastures and meadows they can quickly become a major nuisance: We're talking about the fast-growing rushes. Below you will find out how best to combat the grass-like plants.
How can I fight rushes?
To combat rushes, you must drain the soil as much as possible and lime regularly. In addition, it is important to prevent propagation via self-sowing. To do this, the meadow needs to be mowed carefully several times a year.
What conditions allow rushes to grow?
Bulrushes feel particularly comfortable onmoist soils. In addition, they loveacidic substrate If the meadow is not mowed regularly, rushes also have an easy time reproducing via self-sowing. They are happy to take advantage of every little gap in the turf.
What to do if rushes grow uncontrollably?
If rushes grow uncontrollably, you should create unfavorable growing conditions for them:
- Ensure good soil drainage withDrainages
- Carry out soil tests regularly andlime the subsoil if it is too acidic.
- Mowing Clean the meadow at least four times a year and destroy the mown material. Do not add them to the compost, as rush seeds can germinate even when unripe.
- Reseed gaps in the turf every year to avoid leaving room for rushes.
- Plantdesirable competitors of rushes and continually strengthen them with appropriate fertilizer.
Can I fight rushes with chemicals?
You can also fight rushes with chemical agents. For example,Ranger,GarlonandU46. are suitable for this.
However, we advise you against using such products, as we are not fans of the chemical club, especially not if animals graze on the meadow or you want to cultivate crops for yourself. In addition, chemical agents usually only solve the problem temporarily if the condition of the soil is not fundamentally changed.
Tip
The benefits of rushes for water bodies
The otherwise often cursed rushes are definitely desirable in ponds and streams. Because the plants can break down pollutants and thus purify the water in a natural way.