Buckthorn - An Alien Invader

Buckthorn - An Alien Invader:

European or common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is an invasive species that is crowding out many native plants in our woodlands. This fast growing treelike shrub not only blocks out light and produces enzymes that destroy native plants, it also can be a host for crown rust spot which destroys soy bean crops and helps the growth of Asian lady beetles. Working together, we can help exterminate this alien invader.

Alien Fun Facts

Alien Fun Facts

Q: How important is it for Wisconsin landowners to step up and remove alien species?

A: Very, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resorces, 85% of land in Wisconsin is privately owned.

Only female buckthorn bushes produce berries. These have a toxin that can kill the birds who eat them.

Buckthorn has orange heartwood. This should be checked along the trunk as smaller branched do not show this.

Removing buckthorn is harder than doing homework.

Most people do nothing because they say they don't have the time.


Sunday, February 13, 2011

Set Phasers to Stun - Winter Removal

Before you treat, make sure you have correctly identified the buckthorn. Chemical treatments work best during dormant periods like fall and winter. Start with removing larger buckthorn trees now.  
The two best ways to kill larger buckthorns during the winter are the cut-stump and basal bark methods. The cut stump method is fairly simple. Using a saw cut the buckthorn as close to the ground as you can then spray or paint the cut completely with Garlon 4. Garlon 4 is an oil based herbicide containing Triclopyr. It uses the vascular system to move through the plant and causes cells to rupture which kills the plant. Garlon 4 has a half-life of 30 to 46 days. The second method is the basal bark method. This works best for buckthorns under 2" in diameter. Spray the Garlon 4 directly to the bark at the base of the tree around the entire circumference about six to nine inches high.
Posted by at

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)