Effective Capeweed Control in Pastures and Crops

Capeweed (Arctotheca calendula) is a fast-spreading annual broadleaf weed that poses a serious threat to pastures, cropping systems, and animal health across Australia and similar climates. Recognised by its distinct yellow daisy-like flowers and low-growing rosette, capeweed competes aggressively with pasture species, reduces forage availability, and in some conditions, becomes toxic due to nitrate accumulation.

If you're a distributor, agronomist, or livestock producer, understanding how to identify and control capeweed is vital to ensuring pasture productivity and safeguarding livestock health. At POMAIS, we support clients across agricultural sectors with registered herbicide formulations, expert guidance, and scalable solutions for weed control. This guide outlines practical strategies to help you manage capeweed effectively and professionally.

Weed Profile: What Makes Capeweed a Problem?

Capeweed is a winter-growing annual that germinates in autumn and dominates in spring if left unchecked. Key characteristics include:

• Flat rosette with soft, lobed, hairy leaves

• Bright yellow flowers with black centres

• Shallow fibrous root system

• Prolific seed production, capable of forming dense mats

Capeweed prefers disturbed soils, overgrazed pastures, and areas with low ground cover. In addition to reducing the palatability of forage, it accumulates nitrates and oxalates under certain soil and climate conditions, posing risks of poisoning to grazing animals such as sheep, cattle, and horses.

Best Practices for Capeweed Control

1. Early Identification and Timing

Capeweed control is most effective when applied at the seedling to rosette stage, typically from autumn to early winter. Once flowering begins, chemical control becomes less effective, and seed bank replenishment becomes likely.

2. Cultural and Grazing Management

• Maintain competitive pasture species (e.g., ryegrass, clover) through appropriate fertilisation and reseeding.

• Avoid overgrazing, which creates bare patches and allows capeweed to establish.

• Use rotational grazing to maintain sward density and improve weed suppression.

3. Herbicide Control: Selective Chemical Solutions

The following active ingredients are commonly recommended for capeweed control in pastures and cropping systems:

Always follow product labels and rotate actives where possible to prevent herbicide resistance.

4. Integrated Control Programs

For high-pressure infestations or regions with long capeweed histories, integrate:

• Pre-emergent herbicides in cropping rotations

• Mechanical mowing/slashing prior to flowering

• Reseeding programs post-suppression to restore desirable cover

Safety and Livestock Considerations

Capeweed toxicity increases under:

• High nitrogen fertilisation

• Stressful growing conditions (drought or frost)

• Heavy grazing of young plants in early spring

Animals may exhibit symptoms of nitrate poisoning such as weakness, labored breathing, or sudden death. If pastures are dominated by capeweed, restrict grazing and consult a veterinarian.

Why Work with POMAIS for Capeweed Herbicide Supply?

POMAIS offers:

• Registered active ingredient formulations including MCPA, Bromoxynil, and Glyphosate

• Support for OEM/private label products

• Expert recommendations based on local pasture conditions

• Documentation for MSDS, COA, and compliance

Our herbicides are available in EC, SL, and SC formulations in bulk packs for farm supply stores, cooperatives, and export clients. We ship across South America, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Conclusion: Start Capeweed Control Early for Best Results

Capeweed control isn’t a one-time solution. It requires early intervention, strategic herbicide use, and consistent pasture management. Whether you are advising clients, managing a supply channel, or treating your own paddocks, proactive action is key to reducing capeweed infestations.

For custom herbicide solutions, technical support, or product samples, contact POMAIS Agriculture today.