PARTHINIUM ERADICATION PROGRAMME
PROBLEM

The weed parthinium found in many parts of the North and East of
Sri Lanka has chemical poison parthinin which spreads in the
soil and prevents plant growth. The loss in production is
about 30% to 40% when affected. It also affects human and
other life. It is propagated very fast through out the
North-East Province area. The Provincial Agriculture Department is
taking drastic action for eradication.

Parthinium weed


IDENTIFICATION

* Belonging to the Sunflower family, it is an annual crop.

* Grows up to about 50-150 CM.

* Its leaves are similar to Chrishanthimum Plant leaves.

* It has hairy leaves and stems.

* After 4-6 weeks growth small white flowers can be seen at the
tip of the branches.

HOW IT AFFECTS

* It's pollen grains prevent fertilization and fruiting
of other plants.

* It affects healthy living of humans.

* It's hairy stems and leaves cause allergy on the skin
and lungs.

SPREADING

- Each plant produces more than 15,000 seeds which can
survive for number of years. It is propagated by animals,

vehicles, water and transportation of soil and cow
dung.

- Preventive action should be taken before the plant
flowers.

- Weeds should be uprooted and burnt, while in the tender
age.

- Avoid transport of soils and cow dung to other areas
from areas where these plants are found.

Note: For Further Information – Contact your Area Agriculture
Instructor


http://www.nepc.lk/Newsletter/parthinium_is_a_challenge_to_agr.htm