Volunteers tackle moth plant at I'Anson Bush Reserve near Te Puna

Volunteers who help manage weed control at the I'Anson Bush Reserve are holding a weeding bee on Thursday 29 January to remove moth plants that have flourished over the summer holiday period. The group will gather at 9am at the Armstrong Road end of the reserve, with privet and cherry trees also on the target list.

Moth plant (Araujia hortorum), originally from South America, was introduced to New Zealand as an ornamental species and was recorded as naturalised here in 1888. Bay of Plenty Regional Council notes it can spread into frost-free habitats including intact and disturbed forest, coastline, shrublands, and offshore islands. The bell-shaped flowers appear from December to May, and the pest produces large pods that release wind-borne seeds — which is why organisers are keen to pull the plants before the pods mature. All equipment is supplied, with baking provided afterwards. Those keen to come along should contact Kate Loman-Smith on 021 657 344.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).