• Weed & Turfgrass Science
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• v.5 no.3
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• pp.111-125
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• 2016

Cordgrass (Spartina spp.) is recognized as a highly invasive plant in estuaries throughout the world because of remarkable versatility and resiliency, significant reproduction, strong adaptability, rapid spreading, and vigorous growth. In this review, therefore, to provide insights on the effective management practices, the previous research works were summarized and discussed. Spartina spp. is a perennial halophyte, warm-season (C4) grass that reproduces both sexually through seeds and asexually by rhizomes. Management strategies for cordgrass have included various physical, biological, and chemical controls. Herbicides are usually the most cost-effective means of control. Currently, glyphosate, imazapyr, fluazifop and haloxyfop have been practically used. To improve the control efficacy, a combination of two more than methods (example, mowing-spraying) is needed to be applied consistently every year for at least 3 to 4 years and to be sprayed with enough dry time (>4-6 hr) at an early growth stage (before flowering). Consistently repeated application of same herbicide have to be avoided to prevent an unexpected emergence of herbicide-resistant lines. On the other hand, Spartina spp. have many positive functions for agricultural and eco-engineering purposes. Thus, we have to give more intensive research for effectively managing advantages and disadvantages of Spartina plantations.