About

The Silverleaf Nightshade Project is a collaborative project run by Murrumbidgee Landcare and NSW Primary Industries, funded by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA). The project targets the perennial summer weed Silverleaf Nightshade across the five states of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia.

Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) is an introduced weed that can dominate pastures and cropping areas. It reproduces from both seed and root fragments, and so can be difficult to control by conventional means. Research over the last few years has shown that a systematic approach using a dual action control over the growing season from spring to autumn is needed.

Previous work has shown the extent of the problem, the species involved and how to give control. This project will utilise the existing Landcare networks and farmer groups to build local knowledge and capacity and to foster the adoption of the research by farm communities. Large scale demonstrations carried out by local farmers will compare current research with the standard farmer practices. A series of workshops and field days complimented by media articles is planned to raise awareness of the problem and to get wider adoption of best practices.

If you would like to find out more about this project or get involved please contact us.