Asulam application window opens for bracken control

Bracken control helps to support biodiversity, maintain land for grazing and reduce the risk of livestock diseases.

That is the message for landowners from the Bracken Control Group at the start of the asulam application period.

Currently, the herbicide asulam is not registered for use in the UK, but it was granted an emergency authorisation for use against bracken control, allowing applications from today (1 July).

The final expiry date for disposal, storage and use of stocks is 31 October 2019.

See also: Bracken bashing project bids to reintroduce cattle

UPL, the company behind asulam, marketed as Asulox, submitted the application for the re-registration of the active under EU regulations, which was successful.

Simon Thorp, co-ordinator of the Bracken Control Group, said: “Bracken control by any means, including the use of asulam, should occur as part of a wider land management programme.

“We are now approaching the peak time of the year for bracken control and this coincides with the window for asulam application.”

How to apply

Mr Thorp recommended that landowners who are considering bracken control should refer to the Bracken Control Group’s website for further information.

The EU banned the sale and supply of asulam for bracken control in December 2011.

The decision sparked fury among hill farmers, who used the product for the control of invasive bracken spread on hill ground.

Bracken control is vital as the invasive fern is a risk to sheep health, because it harbours ticks, which infect flocks and cause illnesses such as louping ill and tick-borne fever.

It also threatens human health through Lyme disease.