Introduction of Parthenium hysterophorus L: Status and Management

Abstract

Partheniu11l hysterophorus is now a serious weed of pastures, wastelands and also ofagricultural fields growing under
varied environmental conditions, from sea level to altitudes up to 2000 masl, in most parts of India. Concerted efforts
including physical, mechanical, chemical and biological methods of its control together have to be made at least for
initial 2 to 3 years for its effective suppression in the marked area. Individuals should render responsibility to eliminate
the Parthenium plants establishing in their surrounding. Establishment of the effective botanical agents like exotic
shrub Cassia sericea and other indigenous plants viz., C. tora, C. auriculata, C. occidentalis, Tephrosia purpurea and
Kochea indica (suitable for arid region) is a viable strategy along with the release of leaf feeding Mexican beetle,
Zygogramma bicolorata. Further, foreign exploration of safe and effective weed killer may be given a serious thought
to compliment the potential of Z. bieolorata, in the light of recently introduced International Standards for
Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM#3). Community based approaches consisting of activity classes for school children,
NGO's and others will help in weed containment. Bringing short-term legislation/notification similar to that of
mosquito especially in the metropolitan cities may be an added weapon in integrated parthenium management.
Appropriate integration of these approaches could contain the spread of P. hysterophorus and provide sustainable
suppression especially in non-cropped ecosystem. This may lead to direct protection of environment.