The reason this weed is so hard to control is its ability to reproduce in such great numbers, and the damage it does when removed. Seeds of the yellow soldier are next to impossible to see in the soil or on the shoes of removalists, and germinate easily, negating the effect of the removal program. Removal by hand is labour-intensive, with only 4m² (42 square feet) being removed in a 6-hour period (Weed Management Guide). The ability to grow back from its root system means that the entire plant must be removed from the ground, allowing other weeds to germinate.