Tuberous cyperus... A weed term that makes a lot of farmers' hair stand on end. Both in Flanders and the Netherlands, this invasive exotic species is increasingly causing problems. For more information on tubercyperus can be found on WIkipedia.
Origin and emergence
In northern Belgian Limburg, this weed was first observed in the late 1970s. Although PVL was established only later, we were the first to work out control strategies, in collaboration with the Flemish government.
Existing plant protection products have kept the weed under control for several decades. Unfortunately, it has never been eradicated and has only grown stronger.
Current situation
The combination of a strengthening weed with more stringent regulations on applicable plant protection products have meant that tuber cyperus has been on the rise for the past 10-15 years.
Where a little less than half a century ago it only came sporadically, large parts of Flanders and the Netherlands are now infected. Surveys show that tuber cyperus is already observed on between 10 and 15% of agricultural land, and in certain regions, these percentages seem to be considerably higher.
Call for awareness
Today, we see it everywhere: on agricultural plots, in nature reserves, road verges and stream banks. But even at home, in private gardens, knolcyperus is observed by the better-informed garden contractor. Recently, tubercyperus plants were even found growing between the flowers in the window boxes in front of the town hall of one of our medium-sized Flemish cities.
So it is no longer a northern Limburg problem. It is also emerging in the south of the province, and it has found its way through all the Flemish provinces as far as the West Flanders vegetable region.
Unfortunately, the biggest cause of this spread is ourselves. Spread from plot to plot, from garden to garden and from stream edge to stream edge is by far the main form of spread. Â
In the fight against tuber cyperus, we face a common challenge. It is essential that we become aware of the impact of this invasive exotic and take action to prevent further spread.
PVL remains committed to research into new pest control methods. We also provide advice and support to farmers or other actors who want to optimise their control.
