Docks are often indicative of moist to wet ground with poor drainage and at least intermittent waterlogging. Freshwater swamps and marshes are common habitats. However the exotic species, in particular, will grow readily in seasonally wet depressions, waste lands, roadsides and cultivated ground. None of the species are, if ever, associated with saline environments.
There are about 10 species of Dock found in Victoria. Most species are common and widespread. Native species include Slender Dock (Rumex brownii), Wiry Dock (R. dumosus), Mud Dock (R. bidens) and Glistening Dock (R. crystallinus). Exotic species include Curled Dock (R. crispus), Clustered Dock (R. conglomeratus), Fiddle Dock (R. pulcher) and Broad-leaf Dock (R. obtusifolius).
Manual control
Docks are perennials, they develop a deep tap root. Hoeing or cultivation not recommended as the plant will regrow from the root crown or from pieces of root if not completely removed. Renovating the paddock to improve drainage and soil compaction, and establishing healthy perennial pasture can help control.
From SGLN’s 2017 weed guide.
