Storksbill (Erodium cicutarium)

Provided by Dow AgroSciences

There are three different types of Storksbill in New Zealand. Storksbill (Erodium cicutarium), Long Storksbill (Erodium botrys) and Musky Storksbill (Erodium moschatum).

Long Storksbill (Erodium botrys)

Storksbill is an annual to biennial weed species that is common on the East Coast of New Zealand. It requires bare soil in order for it to become established. This can occur in turf affected by drought damage, dry or over-grazed pasture and on occasion in crops. It germinates in the autumn and summer seasons.

Storksbill forms a rosette with a deep taproot at ground level ranging from 100-300mm in diameter. Its size is relative to its growing conditions. Storksbill produces small purple/pink flowers approximately 10-15mm in diameter. The flowers later develop seed heads which shape has been likened to the head of a stork (Hence how it got its name). Its long narrow pointed fruits have been known to penetrate the skins of animals and make their way into their flesh.

Storksbill flowering

Note: There has been some research performed by the New Zealand Veterinary Society and Massey University into whether there is a link between the consumption of Musky Storksbill foliage and the symptoms of Spring Eczema (SE) (a photosensitivity disease that can affect both calves and adult cattle). Animals can become poisoned upon eating large quantities of Musky Storksbill and show other symptoms including light sensitivity. So far however, the findings are not conclusive. Others have disputed whether it causes this occurrence at all.

Control

The key to the control of Storksbill, is to never let it seed. Once it becomes established, it is very hard to manage. If left uncontrolled it can potentially form a dense mat over pasture.

Broadcast spraying

Storksbill seedlings are regarded as having moderate susceptibility to Pasture-Kleen* Xtra. It is suggested that you use well timed, high rate applications of Pasture-Kleen* Xtra to any effected areas by broadcast applications. (This however, is an off-label recommendation, so results cannot be guaranteed)

Note: You should also be aware that once clover is actively growing, you will get some temporary suppression with Pasture-Kleen* Xtra, so you will need to consider this carefully if you are planning to use the paddock(s) for silage.

Another option to consider for controlling very small Storksbill seedlings, is by broadcast applications of Pulsar^TM. You must ensure the seedlings are actively growing and that the soil temperature is warm, for Pulsar^TM to take effect.

Spot spraying

A good level of control can also be achieved by spot spraying with Tordon* Brushkiller at 6ml/L in a knapsack.

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