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Invasive Plants

Burning Bush: Invasive Plant with Colorful Foliage and Native Alternatives

by Donna April 19, 2025

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Burning Bush: Invasive Plant with Colorful Foliage

Introduction

Burning bush is a popular ornamental shrub known for its stunning red foliage and bright red berries. However, it has become a problem in many areas due to its invasive nature. Fortunately, there are plenty of native alternatives that can provide similar beauty without the drawbacks.

Is Burning Bush Invasive?

Yes, burning bush is considered invasive in most areas. It has spread rapidly along the East Coast and Midwest, outcompeting native plants that wildlife rely on for food and shelter. Some states, like New Hampshire, have even banned its use in landscaping.

Identification

Burning bush, also known as winged burning bush or winged euonymus, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has tan, wing-like appendages on its young stems and is most famous for its fiery red fall foliage and colorful berries.

Why Is Burning Bush Bad?

Invasive burning bush can have negative consequences for the environment. It outcompetes native species, reducing biodiversity and disrupting ecosystems. Additionally, the berries can be toxic to birds if consumed in large quantities.

Controlling Burning Bush

If you have burning bush in your yard, there are steps you can take to control it:

Hand-pulling: Remove seedlings and sprouts by hand, taking care to get the entire root system.
Removal and Replacement: Dig out entire bushes by the roots and dispose of them properly. Replace them with non-invasive native plants.

For large infestations, heavier equipment or herbicide may be necessary.

Alternatives to Burning Bush

There are many beautiful native alternatives to burning bush that can provide similar growth habits, fall color, and berries for wildlife. Some popular choices include:

Chokeberry
Dwarf and standard fothergilla
Fragrant sumac
Highbush cranberry or blueberry
Virginia sweetspire
Winterberry

For fall and winter stem color, varieties of dogwood are a good option:

Red twig dogwood
Silky dogwood

Conclusion

Burning bush is a beautiful plant, but its invasive nature makes it a problem in many areas. By choosing native alternatives, you can enjoy similar beauty without the environmental drawbacks.

Gardening

Coltsfoot: A Noxious Weed with Surprising Medicinal Properties

by Gregory December 15, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Coltsfoot: A Noxious Weed with Medicinal Properties

What is Coltsfoot?

Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a common weed that’s known by various names, including assfoot, coughwort, and foalfoot. These names often refer to the shape of its leaves, which resemble animal footprints.

Identification and Description

Coltsfoot is a perennial weed with dandelion-like flowers and rounded leaves that look similar to violets. Unlike dandelions, coltsfoot flowers emerge and die back before the leaves appear. The undersides of its leaves are covered with dense hairs.

Invasive Habit and Control

Coltsfoot is an invasive weed that can spread rapidly through creeping rhizomes (underground stems) and airborne seeds. It thrives in moist, shady areas but can also grow in full sun and various soil types.

Controlling Coltsfoot

Controlling coltsfoot is important due to its invasive nature. Here are some effective methods:

Hand-pulling: This method is most effective when the soil is moist, allowing for the entire root system to be removed. Be sure to remove all root pieces, as they can regrow into new plants.
Covering the Area: Smothering the area with heavy plastic or other opaque materials can kill the rhizomes by blocking sunlight. Leave the covering in place until the rhizomes die.
Cutting Back Flowers: Regularly cutting back the flowers before they go to seed can prevent the spread of coltsfoot through airborne seeds.

Medicinal Uses and Concerns

Historically, coltsfoot has been used as a medicinal herb, particularly for treating asthma and other lung and throat ailments. The genus name Tussilago means “cough dispeller.”

However, there are concerns about the potential toxicity of coltsfoot. Studies have shown that it may have toxic properties and could potentially cause tumors in rats.

Growing Conditions

Coltsfoot prefers moist clay soil in shady locations. It can also grow in full sun and other soil types, but it may not be as vigorous. Under favorable conditions, coltsfoot spreads rapidly through its rhizomes and airborne seeds.

Long-Term Management

Controlling coltsfoot requires attention and persistence. Regularly hand-pulling, covering the area with plastic, or cutting back flowers are all effective methods of management. By taking these steps, you can prevent coltsfoot from taking over your garden or other areas where it’s not wanted.

Weeds

Pineapple Weed: A Common and Invasive Weed in North America

by Gregory December 13, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Pineapple Weed: A Common and Invasive Broadleaf Weed

Introduction

Pineapple weed, also known as disc mayweed, is a broadleaf weed that is native to Europe and Asia but has become invasive in North America. It is a member of the aster family and is closely related to daisies and sunflowers. Pineapple weed gets its name from the small, yellow, pineapple-shaped flowers that it produces.

Identification

Pineapple weed is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that typically reaches a height of 6 to 12 inches. It has deeply lobed leaves that are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are covered in fine hairs, which give them a slightly fuzzy appearance.

Reproduction

Pineapple weed reproduces only by seeds. The seeds are small and black, and they are dispersed by wind, water, and animals. The seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years, which makes pineapple weed a difficult weed to control.

Habitat

Pineapple weed is a very adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of habitats. It is most commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, parking lots, and vacant lots. It can also be found in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields.

Impact

Pineapple weed is a competitive plant that can quickly crowd out other vegetation. It can also produce allelopathic chemicals, which inhibit the growth of other plants. Pineapple weed can reduce the yield of crops and make it difficult to maintain lawns and gardens.

Control

Pineapple weed can be difficult to control, but there are a few methods that can be effective.

Prevention: The best way to control pineapple weed is to prevent it from establishing in the first place. This can be done by keeping your lawn and garden free of weeds and by avoiding disturbing the soil.
Cultural control: Cultural control methods, such as mowing and mulching, can help to suppress the growth of pineapple weed. Mowing should be done frequently, and the clippings should be removed from the lawn. Mulch can help to smother pineapple weed seedlings and prevent them from establishing.
Chemical control: Herbicides can be used to control pineapple weed, but they should be used with caution. Some herbicides can damage desirable plants, so it is important to read and follow the label carefully.

Conclusion

Pineapple weed is a common and invasive weed that can be difficult to control. However, by following the tips above, you can help to reduce the impact of pineapple weed on your lawn and garden.

Additional Information

Pineapple weed is also known as chamomile, stinking chamomile, and wild chamomile.
The leaves and flowers of pineapple weed have a strong, pineapple-like aroma.
Pineapple weed is a popular herb in traditional medicine. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, including indigestion, anxiety, and insomnia.
Pineapple weed is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.
Pineapple weed is a larval host plant for the painted lady butterfly.

Gardening

Can Native Plants Become Invasive? Signs, Causes, and Prevention

by Gregory December 12, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Can Native Plants Become Invasive?

Introduction

We often think of invasive plants as non-native species that take over our gardens and natural areas. However, it may surprise you to learn that even native plants can become invasive under certain conditions. This article will explore the factors that can contribute to native plants becoming invasive and provide tips on how to prevent it.

Signs of Invasive Native Plants

How can you tell if a native plant is becoming invasive? Here are some signs to look for:

Generalist: The plant can adapt to various conditions, making it difficult to control.
Out-competes other plants: It grows aggressively and crowds out other species.
Reproduces easily: The plant produces a lot of seeds or spreads vegetatively, allowing it to quickly colonize new areas.
Resistant to pests and diseases: The plant is not affected by common pests or diseases that keep other plants in check.

How Native Plants Become Invasive

Native plants typically play a beneficial role in their ecosystems. However, they can become invasive when:

Conditions change: Climate change, land use changes, or other factors can create conditions that favor certain native species over others.
Human activities: Planting native species in inappropriate locations or overusing them in landscaping can lead to their becoming invasive.
Lack of diversity: Gardens and natural areas with low plant diversity are more susceptible to invasive species, both native and non-native.

How to Prevent Native Plants from Becoming Invasive

There are several steps you can take to prevent native plants from becoming invasive in your garden or landscape:

Diversify your plantings: Plant a variety of native species to create a more balanced ecosystem.
Choose species that are adapted to your local conditions: This will help them thrive without becoming overly aggressive.
Avoid planting known invasive species: Research native plants before adding them to your garden to ensure they are not known to be invasive in your area.
Monitor your plants: Keep an eye on your native plants and remove any that show signs of becoming invasive.
Control seed dispersal: Prevent invasive plants from spreading by removing seed heads before they mature or by using physical barriers.

The Relative Nature of Invasiveness

It’s important to note that the term “invasive” is relative. Not everyone would consider a native plant to be invasive, even if it is causing problems in a particular location. The key is to manage native plants in a way that balances their ecological benefits with their potential to become a nuisance or threat.

Conclusion

Native plants can provide many benefits to our gardens and ecosystems. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for some native species to become invasive. By understanding the signs and factors that contribute to invasiveness, we can take steps to prevent native plants from becoming a problem.

Gardening

Invasive Plants: A Threat to Your Garden and How to Control Them

by Gregory December 1, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Invasive Plants: A Threat to Your Garden

Introduction

Invasive plants are a major problem for gardeners. They can quickly take over your garden, crowding out your desired plants and making it difficult to maintain a healthy landscape. While some invasive plants are obvious, such as dandelions and crabgrass, others can be more difficult to identify. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of invasive plants, how to control them, and how to prevent them from taking over your garden.

What Are Invasive Plants?

Invasive plants are non-native species that have been introduced to an area and have become a threat to the native ecosystem. They are often aggressive growers and can quickly spread, displacing native plants and disrupting the natural balance of the environment.

Types of Invasive Plants

There are many different types of invasive plants, including:

Weeds: Weeds are unwanted plants that grow in gardens, lawns, and other cultivated areas. Some common weeds include dandelions, crabgrass, and chickweed.
Ornamental plants: Ornamental plants are plants that are grown for their beauty or aesthetic value. However, some ornamental plants can become invasive if they are not properly controlled. Examples include English ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, and butterfly bush.
Groundcovers: Groundcovers are plants that are used to cover the ground and prevent erosion. Some groundcovers, such as pachysandra and vinca, can become invasive if they are not properly managed.
Vines: Vines are plants that climb on other plants or structures. Some vines, such as poison ivy and Virginia creeper, can become invasive and damage your property.

Problems Caused by Invasive Plants

Invasive plants can cause a number of problems in your garden, including:

Competition with desired plants: Invasive plants can compete with your desired plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight. This can stunt the growth of your plants and make them more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Alteration of the ecosystem: Invasive plants can alter the natural ecosystem of your garden. They can change the soil chemistry, disrupt the food chain, and provide habitat for pests and diseases.
Damage to property: Invasive plants can damage your property by climbing on structures, blocking gutters, and breaking windows.

Controlling Invasive Plants

There are a number of different ways to control invasive plants, including:

Prevention: The best way to control invasive plants is to prevent them from entering your garden in the first place. Inspect new plants carefully before planting them, and avoid planting known invasive species.
Manual removal: Hand pulling and digging are effective ways to remove small infestations of invasive plants. Be sure to remove the entire plant, including the roots.
Mulching: Mulching can help to suppress the growth of invasive plants. Spread a thick layer of mulch around your plants, taking care to cover any exposed soil.
Herbicides: Herbicides can be used to control invasive plants that are difficult to remove by other methods. However, herbicides should only be used as a last resort, as they can also harm beneficial plants and animals.

Organic Approaches to Invasive Plant Control

There are a number of organic approaches to invasive plant control, including:

Companion planting: Planting certain companion plants near your desired plants can help to deter invasive plants. For example, planting marigolds near tomatoes can help to repel aphids.
Crop rotation: Crop rotation is a practice of planting different crops in the same area in a sequential order. This can help to prevent the build-up of invasive plants and improve soil health.
Biological control: Biological control is the use of natural enemies to control invasive plants. For example, ladybugs can be used to control aphids, and parasitic wasps can be used to control caterpillars.

Conclusion

Invasive plants can be a major problem for gardeners. However, by following the tips in this article, you can control invasive plants and keep your garden healthy and beautiful.

Gardening

Lantana Control: How to Manage and Eliminate Invasive Lantana

by Donna September 16, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Lantana: A Beautiful but Invasive Plant

Lantana camara is a flowering plant that can be both beautiful and a nuisance. In some gardens, it adds colorful blooms, while in others, it can take over and become a pest.

About Lantana

Lantana is a shrub with small, colorful flowers that change color over time. It is native to the West Indies and is popular with home gardeners. In warmer climates, lantana is a perennial, but in cooler regions, it is grown as an annual or in containers.

Lantana as a Weed

In some areas, lantana has become an invasive weed. It grows quickly and aggressively, forming thick hedges that are difficult to penetrate. Lantana is also toxic to livestock and humans.

Controlling Lantana

Controlling lantana can be challenging because it is a tough plant. However, there are several methods that can be effective.

Physical Control

Pulling out lantana by hand can be effective for small infestations.
Removing flower heads before seeds form can prevent the spread of lantana.

Chemical Control

Chemical herbicides can be used to control lantana, but they can be expensive and harmful to the environment.

Biological Control

Researchers are currently working on strategies using insects to destroy lantana plants.

Preventing the Spread of Lantana

Keeping your yard full of healthy, native plants can help prevent the spread of lantana.
Lantana tends to take over disturbed, open areas.

Lantana Toxicity

All parts of the lantana plant are toxic to humans and livestock.
Contact with the leaves and stems can cause skin irritation and a rash.

Tips for Managing Lantana

Use gloves and wear long sleeves when handling lantana.
Check with your local agricultural extension office for recommendations on using insects to control lantana.
With a multi-step approach, you can effectively manage or even eliminate invasive lantana from your garden or yard.

Additional Information

Lantana is native to the West Indies.
Lantana flowers change color over time.
Lantana is toxic to humans and livestock.
Lantana can be controlled using physical, chemical, and biological methods.
Preventing the spread of lantana is important to protect your garden and the environment.

Gardening

Control Pampas Grass: A Guide to Managing This Invasive Plant

by Donna August 24, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Pampas Grass: A Beautiful but Invasive Plant

Pampas grass is a tall, ornamental grass that is popular in landscaping. It is native to South America, but it has been introduced to many other parts of the world, where it has become invasive in some areas.

Characteristics of Pampas Grass

Pampas grass is a perennial grass, meaning that it lives for more than two years. It has long, narrow leaves with sharp edges. The leaves can grow up to 6 feet long and 1 foot wide. Pampas grass also produces large, showy plumes that can be pink, white, or cream-colored. The plumes can grow up to 3 feet long.

Benefits of Pampas Grass

Pampas grass is a popular landscaping plant because it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. It can also be used to create privacy screens, windbreaks, and other landscape features.

Problems with Pampas Grass

Pampas grass can become invasive in some areas because it produces a lot of seeds that are easily dispersed by the wind. The seeds can germinate and grow into new plants, even in areas where the grass is not wanted. Pampas grass can also crowd out native plants and create a fire hazard.

Controlling Pampas Grass

There are a few different ways to control pampas grass. One way is to cut it down to the ground in the early spring. This will prevent the grass from producing seeds. Another way to control pampas grass is to apply an herbicide. However, chemical control should only be used as a last resort, as organic approaches are more environmentally friendly.

Organic Control Methods

There are a few organic methods that can be used to control pampas grass. One method is to dig up the grass by the roots. This is a difficult and time-consuming task, but it is effective. Another method is to smother the grass with a thick layer of mulch. This will block out the sunlight and prevent the grass from growing.

Chemical Control Methods

If organic methods are not effective, you may need to use chemical control to kill pampas grass. There are a few different herbicides that are effective against pampas grass. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the herbicide label carefully.

Conclusion

Pampas grass is a beautiful plant, but it can become invasive in some areas. If you are considering planting pampas grass in your landscape, be sure to research the potential risks and take steps to control its spread.

Gardening

Ultimate Guide to Controlling Lemon Balm: Prevention, Control, and Elimination

by Gregory July 30, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Control Lemon Balm: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Lemon balm is a popular herb known for its pleasant, lemony flavor and aroma. It’s easy to grow, but it can quickly become invasive if not properly controlled. This guide will provide comprehensive instructions on how to prevent lemon balm from spreading, control it effectively, and eliminate it from your garden.

Preventing Lemon Balm from Spreading

Choose a contained growing area: Plant lemon balm in raised beds or containers to limit its spread.
Shear regularly: Cut back the plant two to three times per year to prevent flowering and seed production.
Remove flowers promptly: If the plant does bloom, remove the flowers before they go to seed.

Controlling Lemon Balm

Hand-pulling: If the plant has already gone to seed, pull it out by hand. Be sure to remove the entire root system and any runners (stolons).
Loosen the soil: Use a garden fork to loosen the soil before pulling, especially if it’s hard.
Persistence: Controlling lemon balm requires regular attention. Pull out small shoots as soon as they appear.

Eliminating Lemon Balm

Manual removal: Dig up the entire root system and all stolons. It may require multiple attempts to completely eliminate the plant.
Chemical control: As a last resort, consider using an herbicide specifically labeled for lemon balm control. Follow the instructions carefully and take precautions to avoid harming other plants.

Additional Tips

Monitor problem areas: Keep an eye out for areas where lemon balm tends to grow and take prompt action to remove it.
Mulch around plants: Spread mulch around established plants to suppress weed growth, including lemon balm.
Avoid using lemon balm as a ground cover: While it can be tempting to use lemon balm as a ground cover, it’s best to avoid this as it can quickly take over.
Choose sterile varieties: Consider planting sterile varieties of lemon balm that do not produce seeds.

Conclusion

Controlling lemon balm can be challenging, but it’s possible with patience and persistence. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively prevent lemon balm from spreading, control it effectively, and eliminate it from your garden. Remember to monitor your garden regularly and take prompt action to keep this invasive plant in check.

Bulbs

Spanish Bluebells: The Complete Guide to Growing, Controlling, and Enjoying Them Responsibly

by Gregory June 22, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

The Complete Guide to Spanish Bluebells: Growing, Controlling, and Enjoying Them Responsibly

Introduction

Spanish bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica) are beautiful, bulbous perennials that can add a touch of color and charm to any garden. However, they can also be invasive, so it’s important to know how to grow and control them responsibly.

What are Spanish Bluebells?

Spanish bluebells are native to Spain, Portugal, and North Africa, but they have been introduced to many other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom and the United States. They are characterized by their sturdy stems, which are topped with clusters of bell-shaped flowers in the spring. The flowers are usually pale blue in color, but they can also be pink or white.

Spanish bluebells are easy to grow and care for, but they can spread both by seed and by bulb. This can make them difficult to control, especially in areas where they are not native.

The Difference Between Spanish and English Bluebells

Spanish bluebells are often confused with English bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), but there are a few key differences between the two species.

Flowers: Spanish bluebells have larger, more open flowers than English bluebells. They are also unscented, while English bluebells have a sweet fragrance.
Stems: Spanish bluebells have upright flower stems, while English bluebells have arching flower stems.
Leaves: Spanish bluebells have wider leaves than English bluebells.

How to Grow and Care for Spanish Bluebells

Spanish bluebells are easy to grow and care for, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Soil: Spanish bluebells prefer to grow in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Light: Spanish bluebells can grow in full sun or partial shade.
Water: Spanish bluebells need regular watering, especially during the growing season.
Fertilizer: Spanish bluebells benefit from being fertilized once a year in the spring.

How to Control Spanish Bluebells

Spanish bluebells can be invasive, so it’s important to take steps to control their spread.

Deadhead: Deadheading, or removing the faded flowers, will help to prevent Spanish bluebells from spreading by seed.
Dig up the bulbs: If Spanish bluebells are becoming a problem, you can dig up the bulbs and dispose of them. Be sure to wear gloves, as the bulbs are toxic.
Use herbicides: Herbicides can be effective in controlling Spanish bluebells, but they should only be used as a last resort.

How to Propagate Spanish Bluebells

Spanish bluebells can be propagated by dividing the bulbs. To do this, dig up the bulbs in the late summer or early fall. Then, carefully divide the bulbs into smaller clumps and replant them.

Pests and Diseases of Spanish Bluebells

Spanish bluebells are not subject to any serious pests or diseases. However, they can be susceptible to snails and slugs. To protect your Spanish bluebells from these pests, you can use snail and slug bait.

Conclusion

Spanish bluebells are beautiful and easy-to-grow flowers that can add a touch of color and charm to any garden. However, it’s important to be aware of their invasive potential and to take steps to control their spread. By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy the beauty of Spanish bluebells without worrying about them taking over your garden.

Gardening

Wintercreeper Control: A Comprehensive Guide to Eradicating Invasive Vines

by Donna May 17, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Wintercreeper: A Persistent Problem and How to Control It

Wintercreeper is a beautiful vine that can quickly turn into a nightmare for gardeners. It’s an invasive plant that can quickly take over your garden, smothering other plants and making it difficult to enjoy your outdoor space.

What is Wintercreeper?

Wintercreeper is a vine that’s native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the early 1900s and has since become a major problem in many areas. Wintercreeper is a very aggressive plant that can quickly spread and take over large areas. It can climb up trees and shrubs, smothering them and blocking out sunlight. Wintercreeper can also form dense mats on the ground, preventing other plants from growing.

Why is Wintercreeper a Problem?

Wintercreeper is a problem for several reasons. First, it can quickly take over your garden, making it difficult to grow other plants. Second, wintercreeper can damage trees and shrubs by climbing up them and blocking out sunlight. Third, wintercreeper can create a tripping hazard, especially in areas where it forms dense mats on the ground.

How to Control Wintercreeper

There are several methods that you can use to control wintercreeper, including:

Pulling: Pulling is the most effective way to control wintercreeper if the area isn’t too large. Be sure to pull the entire plant, including the roots. If you leave any roots behind, they will regrow.
Smothering: You can smother wintercreeper with cardboard or black plastic. This will block out sunlight and prevent the plant from photosynthesizing. Be sure to cover the entire area where the wintercreeper is growing, and weigh down the cardboard or plastic so that it doesn’t blow away.
Trimming: You can trim wintercreeper to keep it under control. However, be aware that trimming can actually encourage the plant to grow more. If you do decide to trim wintercreeper, be sure to dispose of the clippings properly so that they don’t spread the plant.

Preventing Wintercreeper

The best way to control wintercreeper is to prevent it from getting started in the first place. Here are a few tips:

Don’t plant wintercreeper in your garden. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many nurseries still sell wintercreeper as an easy-to-grow ornamental plant. If you see wintercreeper for sale, don’t buy it.
Be careful when buying plants from other sources. If you’re buying plants from a friend or neighbor, be sure to inspect them carefully for any signs of wintercreeper. If you see any, don’t bring the plants home.
Keep your garden clean. Wintercreeper can spread through seeds, so it’s important to keep your garden clean and free of debris. This will help to prevent the plant from taking hold.

Conclusion

Wintercreeper is a serious problem, but it can be controlled with the right methods. By following the tips in this article, you can keep wintercreeper out of your garden and enjoy your outdoor space.

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