Himalayan Balsam Solution

[Arbgirl]

The woodland at Duxbury Park, Chorley (ABC HQ) is covered in the stuff (saw that when doing my Tech Cert management exams last month) - its taken over and got out of control. I have noticed it also in Ashdown Forest where it is out of control. Bloomin stuff takes over and outcompetes native flora. I was interested to see that the bluebells dont seem to be bothered by it (certainly not in the earlier part of the year) as it hasnt grown tall enough to suppress flowering, but I wonder if the shade that it will put on the bluebells later in the year will reduce photosynthetic capacity and gradually weaken the bluebells over time. Very sad to see when these darn invasives get a hold.....and dont get me started on knotweed...........

 

Hand pulling is effective if you do it early enough in the year, and make sure you get every part - no point doing it once plants are in seed. It needs to be done regularly each year, but it is possible to reduce/eradicate it, if you have enough willing volunteers! Watercourses play a huge part in the spread of this plant as can be seen by encroachments all along the banks of affected rivers/streams, so tackling any that are near water should be a priority to prevent the spread downstream. Must try eating them as a means of control!!

Edited May 23, 2010 by Arbgirl

[Bart]

Ive found strimming just as it flowers to be quite effective, it give's the natural flora a bit of time to establish before winter. Reapeted for a few years seems to be quite effective.

Edited May 24, 2010 by Bart
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