Biological Control

Biological Control

For areas along rivers or other waterways where chemical weed control methods are not appropriate, Pineview offers a biological approach to weed control, whereby a specific type of insect that feeds on the seeds of the invasive plant species is introduced.


The biological control agent, which can also be a form of fungus or even grazing animals when appropriate, doesn't completely destroy the invasive plant. However, it controls the species' population.

Biological controls often work in cycles. When a lot of invasive weeds build up, the insects also increase to take advantage of the wealth of food. When the insects have eaten much of their food, the following cycle may result in fewer insects. The key is finding the right insects (often crickets or various types of ground beetles) to eat both the weeds and their seeds.


Biological control can be tricky to manipulate as a form of weed management. This method of control can take three to four years to be completely successful, but it's an excellent natural weed control method, and can be an ideal choice when the landowner wishes to avoid herbicides.

Share by: