Austral bracken(Pteridium esculentum) —its biology, control and competitiveness in South Australia

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Abstract
The widespread existence of bracken fern provides evidence that the plant is particularly hardy and well adapted to a variety of environmental conditions. Every part of the plant appears to have several features which ensure not only its continued survival but that it flourishes. This paper highlights the biological features of bracken fern which contribute to its competitive ability in South Australia. Evidence is given of the impact of bracken fern (Pteridium esculentum) [Forst. f] Cockayne [F. Dennstaedtiaceae]) as a competitor on the growth of young radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) plantations in the south-east of South Australia. In addition, these biological features are discussed in relation to their effect on uptake, translocation and effectivensss of herbicides used in bracken control.