The presence of weeds such as Wheel Cactus on your land, particularly large infestations, no doubt affects the value of your land.
Wheel Cactus are an eyesore, and any prospective buyer could easily be turned off by these horrible weeds. If I was looking at two similar properties, one full of Wheel Cactus and one without this scourge, I know which one I’d choose! A property where Wheel Cactus is absent, or at least in low densities, is bound to be far more appealing to most buyers.
Apart from the aesthetics issue, weeds represent clear financial problems for primary producers because they reduce farm productivity. Weeds can reduce crop yield by competing for water, sunlight and nutrients and smothering pastures. They also negatively affect stock by reducing available forage, causing physical injury and hindering grazing behaviour.
Did you know that weeds and pest animals cost Australian farmers approx. $5.3 billion every year in management and lost production! Of this enormous figure, weeds (not animal pests) actually contribute 82% of this total cost, according to a 2023 report by ABARES (Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences) (see link at bottom of story).
There are of course many other non-financial benefits to tackling weeds such as Wheel Cactus on your land. Weed control benefits the neighbouring natural environment, gives you pride in your achievements, and the physical activity can reduce stress and improve your mental and physical wellbeing.
If you have Wheel Cactus on your land, don’t be discouraged. It is possible to clear your land of this noxious weed, and it’s never too late to get started. The Tarrangower Cactus Control Group (TCCG) has a wealth of information and support to provide landowners and neighbourhood groups, including providing equipment on loan. We can also show you local properties that have successfully cleared their infestations. Check out our website (www.cactuswarriors.org) and contact us on info@cactuswarriors.org.
Check out this amazing before and after photo to see what’s possible!
