Determining suitable methods for the control of Mimosa pigra in Tram Chim National Park, Vietnam.

A series of field experiments was carried out in Tram Chim to test the effectiveness of various control methods. Stem cutting, burning and the combination of stem cutting and burning were not effective. Living mimosa plants were difficult to burn, and cut stems resprouted quickly after treatment. Fire triggered mimosa seed germination. Cutting stems at the beginning of the flood season was more effective in killing mature mimosa than cutting during the dry season. The herbicide metsulphuron was more effective on seedlings and young than on mature plants. It was concluded that no single method was successful on its own in eradicating mimosa in Tram Chim. We recommended a forceful eradication method that combines stem cutting, fire, flood and herbicides, each method targeting a specific growth stage of mimosa. The integrated eradication should be a part of a broader strategic mimosa management plan.