Harmfulness of exotic weeds in China and for their management

Abstract

Exotic weeds have caused serious harm to crop production, orchards, lawns, natural environment and biodiversity in China. This is closely related to certain characteristics of the exotic weeds and to lack of environmental resistance. To manage exotic weeds, measures should be taken in two aspects: one is prevention of introduction of exotic weeds, and the other is control of existing ones. In the former aspect, measures that should be taken include: 1) reinforcing plant quarantine; 2) establishing a risk assessment system for introduction of exotic plants, and 3) encouraging the utilization of native plants. In the latter aspect, the following comprehensive measures should be taken: 1) controlling ecological destruction; 2) conducting biological control of exotic weeds; 3) using economic plants as habitat displacement control agents, and 4) conducting utilization of exotic weeds.