Weed control
Weeds can be a problem in kangaroo paws, especially in older plants with dead centres. Do not allow broad-leaved weeds to become established since there are no herbicides registered to control them. Post-emergent control of grasses can be achieved with a registered grass selective herbicide. See the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) website for the latest information prior to use.
For weed control between rows, glyphosate or Sprayseed® may be used with a hood to protect the kangaroo paws. Pre-emergent herbicides such as chlorthal-dimethyl are safe to use over the plants but must be applied evenly and watered in for effective weed control. Application through trickle irrigation is not sufficient.
General maintenance
Some species of kangaroo paw, especially those susceptible to ink disease, respond well to slashing and/or burning in late summer to autumn. Remember to pull up the irrigation lines before burning. The slashing and burning reduces the fungal inoculum load and gives the plant a clean start for the following year.
Pest and disease control
The most troublesome disease of kangaroo paws is ink disease, believed to be caused by the fungus Alternaria alternata. A. flavidus and A. flavidus hybrids are usually least susceptible. A. manglesii is often badly affected and a 1.5m spacing to improve air circulation around the plants is recommended.
A registered fungicide should be used regularly to assist control of ink disease. If certain plants appear to be highly susceptible, it is often better to rogue them out, as they provide an inoculum source for the rest of the crop.
Rust can affect the foliage of kangaroo paws. It may be controlled with a registered fungicide.
Kangaroo paws can succumb to a range of crown and root rots, especially when stressed by poorly drained soil, salt build-up or phosphorus toxicity. Phytophthora and Pythium fungus species may be controlled by reducing watering or improving soil drainage and by applying fungicidal drenches.
There are no chemicals registered for the control of Fusarium rots. Fusarium rots are often characterised by a pinkish colouration to the roots but for positive identification a pathological test is essential.
During spring and autumn, kangaroo paws may become infested with aphids, that cause particular damage during the early flowering period. Control may be achieved with sprays of a systemic insecticide. Leaf miner may be troublesome during winter. Control when the larvae are active. Slugs and snails can be a problem, especially on young plants.
Chemical registrations and permits change frequently so check the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) website for the latest information prior to use.