Leptospermum and Agricultural Chemicals ?

As already described, the application of herbicide such as glyphosate would generally be required to provide a weed-free planting environment prior to planting and for an establishment period afterwards. Complete weed control is an essential precursor regardless of how it is achieved.

The modern non-residual herbicides dissipate in the environment very quickly, and since they would only be used well before the first sign of flowering, it is not considered hazardous to the incoming bee population.

After planting and after the establishment period there ought to be no need to use any agricultural chemical inputs.

Provided the species is matched to the site, and the plantation is in full sun, it will be most unlikely that fungal infestations will occur requiring fungicides.

The ongoing use of herbicide will not be required provided grazing or slashing is provided to control grass growth and achieve general housekeeping objectives.

Insecticide will not be required as these plants are not subject to significant insect pest infestations.

Following an infestation of Varroa mite in the port of Newcastle in 2022 there have now been further developments. Varroa has spread beyond the emergency control area so much so that in September 2013 the authorities announced that it is no longer possible to successfully contain this pest using quarantine measures alone. The industry is now waiting for the next advisory from the authorities.

Above all else, there is a correlation between the use of agricultural chemicals and the death and decline of bee populations worldwide. The use of any agricultural chemicals around bees should be vigorously discouraged.

Chemical Weed Control.

Also see notes on site preparation

List of chemicals harmful to bees