11.3.5.Management of pests and weeds on a horticultural block

The issues surrounding the management of pests and weeds on a block used for horticulture will again depend on whether livestock are run in conjunction with the horticultural enterprise.
If livestock are used for weed and grass control around grape vines or fruit trees for example, the aim of keeping 70-80% ground cover at all times still applies. Overstocking may well result in the livestock damaging the horticultural crop and creating bare ground, further encouraging weeds, so it is important to have alternative pasture available.
If there are no livestock present on the block, weeds will still need to be controlled by mechanical and chemical means, as described in this chapter for management on a bush or lifestyle block.
Pest animals such as rabbits and feral pigs may pose a risk for the success of some horticultural crops, and should be controlled using the methods outlined in the general management section.