Guidance

Common ragwort disposal options: guidance

This guidance has been prepared to supplement the advice given in the Code of Practice on how to prevent the spread of Ragwort.

This publication was withdrawn on

This information is out of date and has been withdrawn.

You can read our current guidance on preventing harmful weeds and invasive non-native plants spreading.

Documents

Guidance on the disposal options for common ragwort

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email defra.helpline@defra.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Addendum- 2008

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email defra.helpline@defra.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

You should also read the Code of Practice

The need to control ragwort

Common Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) is a specified weed under the Weeds Act 1959. It contains toxins, which can have debilitating or fatal consequences if eaten by horses and other grazing animals.

Ragwort may need to be controlled when its presence and the likelihood of it spreading to neighbouring land poses a risk to horses and other grazing animals or land used for the production of forage.

The Code of Practice provides practical advice on identifying the risk and the most appropriate means of control.

The safe and effective disposal of ragwort is an important part of ragwort control. Disposing of ragwort responsibly reduces the risk of further spread by seed dispersal and regrowth from root sections.

Published 15 March 2011