Invasive Species

Hey guys! Sorry I haven't posted in a while! Here is some information about invasive species that are found in my area, but may not be invasive where you are. Be sure to research these species in the links I provide. Thanks!

Garlic Mustard (Alliaria Petiolata)


Garlic Mustard, identifiable by its oddly shaped leaves (pictured above), tiny white flowers, and garlicky smell (go figure) is a very invasive plant in North America that is native to Europe, western and central Asia, and northwestern Africa. It is used for cooking in Europe and was brought here by European settlers in the 1860's. The reason it's so invasive her but not in Europe is because the insects and fungi that feed on it and keep it under control in Europe are not present in North America. Removal methods are pulling or cutting at the base. Pulling is more effective if this little plant shows up in your backyard.

For more information- http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/animalsAndPlants/noxious-weeds/weed-identification/garlic-mustard.aspx

Buckthorn (Rhamnus Catharctica)




Buckthorn is a tree-like shrub with round, thick leaves that is native to Europe and Asia. It was first brought to the area by Europe in the mid 1800's as a popular hedging material. Shortly after, it was realized to be very invasive. Nurseries stopped selling it in the 1930's, but it can still be found in woods or forests all over North America. To remove buckthorn, you can cut it down, but be sure to spray roundup on the stump to prevent it from spreading.

For more information- http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/woody/buckthorn/control.html or http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/woody/buckthorn/index.html

Queen Anne's Lace (Daucus Carota)




Queen Anne's Lace is a (very pretty) white flower that is native to Europe and southwest Asia. It is invasive in North America but also Australia. It was brought here by European settlers as a wild carrot- the carrots we now eat were once cultivated from this plant. It is found in many run down fields and forests in North America. If you find this plant, the best way to remove it is pull the flower before it even buds or blossoms. This will prevent spreading as much as is possible.

For more information- http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/queen_annes_lace.htm

Thanks for reading my rant about invasive species! If you see any of these, first confirm that they are invasive in your area, and then get rid of them!

Remember, stay tuned for more posts about Mother Nature and her wonders! Also, be sure to subscribe to Earth Walk updates by email in the box to the right! Thanks guys!