Management
Slender False Brome Management
The Great Lakes Slender False Brome Working Group performed monitoring and removal studies at multiple sites within WNY PRISM, to determine effectiveness of various management strategies. Results of these studies have led to the creation of a slender false brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum) Best Management Practices document.
The work done in this Working Group has also led to the creation of an in-depth Strategic Plan for the Management of Slender False Brome (Brachypodium sylvaticum). This is an invaluable source of information that demonstrates the steps used by the Working Group to implement removal efforts, spread prevention, and education and outreach.
The following management strategies are being researched for slender false brome control:
- Manual Removal: Hand pull small patches when plants are not producing flowers or seed. Make sure to remove the entire plant including the roots. Contain all plant material in landfill-bound trash bags to prevent the further spread of this species.
- Mechanical Control: Cut or mow plants in June to prevent seed production for that growing season. This can be repeated for multiple years to exhaust the seed bank. Avoid mowing when plants are flowering and seeding and clean equipment thoroughly to remove plant material and seeds.
- Herbicide Application: Research has shown slender false brome is susceptible to glyphosate. Herbicide can be applied to the plants during the growing season before flowering and seeding occur. Since slender false brome remains active into the fall, herbicide can be applied later in the season as well.
- Mechanical + Herbicide: Mowing can be used before herbicide application to potentially increase the effectiveness of management.
Use Pesticide Wisely: Always read the entire pesticide label carefully and follow all instructions. Before applying any type of herbicide, ensure it is approved for use in the target area and that all necessary permits have been obtained.
2018 Before, Genesee County Park and Forest: A monoculture of slender false brome. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2018 After, Genesee County Park and Forest: Post treatment results of mechanical control (left) and chemical control (right). Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2019 Before, Genesee County Park and Forest: Treatments of mechanical control (left) and chemical control (right) were done the previous summer and the photo above shows spring regrowth of slender false brome. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2019 After, Genesee County Park and Forest: Post treatment results of mechanical control (left) and chemical control (right). Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
Before, Bergen Swamp: A dense infestation of slender false brome. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
After, Bergen Swamp: Post treatment results of mechanical and chemical treatment. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2019 Before, Letchworth State Park: A dense infestation of slender false brome at Letchworth State Park. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2019 After, Letchworth State Park: Post treatment results of chemical control. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2018 Before, Trestle Park: An infestation of slender false brome along a path. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM. 
2018 After, Trestle Park: Post treatment results of manual removal. Photo Credit: WNY PRISM.
Spread Prevention
The cheapest and most effective management strategy for slender false brome is preventing the spread of seeds and the establishment of new populations. This can be done by cleaning hiking gear before and after hitting the trails, keeping tires free of mud and dirt that could contain seeds, and cleaning mowing equipment.
The Great Lakes Slender False Brome Working Group encourages spread prevention efforts by working with partners to install boot brush stations near known infestations of this species. Stations are created in partnership with PlayCleanGo! Signs describe invasive species and the importance of cleaning off footwear and clothing when entering and leaving trails. They also provide a convenient boot brush for cleaning off mud, leaving no excuse not to clean your boots!
