Tomato Spray Programme - Weeds

Though barnyard grass (Echinochloa-crus-galli) is mainly found on the North Island it can now be found on the South Island as far south as South Canterbury. Barnyard grass germinates in the spring when temperatures increase. Barnyard grass is very competitive and invades a range of crops. When small, barnyard grass can be identified by its upright habit, rolled leaves and lack of ligules or auricles. When seed-heads are present they are quite distinct being open and with dark brown seeds.

Galinsoga (Galinsoga parviflora), also known as Gallant Soldier, is an annual upright weed which grows to about 75 cm tall. The leaves up to 9 cm long, in opposite pairs, are oval, pointed, toothed and a greenish–yellow in colour. The flowers consist of central yellow disc florets, surrounded by five white ray florets which are 3 lobed at the tip. Usually in small clusters, flowers are seen October to April. Galinsoga is found in cultivated land, pasture, gardens and road-sides in the South Island, and more occasionally in the North Island.

Spurrey (Spergula arvensis) is a fine-stemmed, sprawling annual weed which is commonly found throughout New Zealand. It can often grow dense. Severely competing with and smother crop seedlings and establishing pastures. Spurrey germinates in the autumn and spring.