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, March 20, 2011

Use the Force

The warmer temperatures mean that herbicides will no longer be as effective, but spring time is a great time for using force. Digging out smaller buckthorn will be easier as the ground thaws. There will be one major root that jets out to the side. This is called the hockey stick. By digging along this root and cutting it, you can use it as leverage to pull the buckthorn out. Removing a good portion of this root will keep the plant from growing back.
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2 comments:

  1. Tim MinerMarch 21, 2011 at 5:37 PM

    Harumph! I was going to send an intelligent sounding question regarding buckthorn, herbicide and temperatures, only to find this post. Why would warming temps make the herbicide less effective? Thanks for the hockey stick tip. Tim

    ReplyDelete
  2. Closer Than MarsMarch 23, 2011 at 12:59 PM

    During the spring flush the plant is pushing everything up into the branches for new growth instead of drawing nutrients into the roots. This makes herbicides less effective.

    ReplyDelete

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