Invasive species such as Glossy Buckthorn, Common Buckthorn, Bush Honey Suckle, Oriental Bitter Sweet and Barberry can wreak havoc on a native ecosystem and prevent the growth of many favored-native species of shrubs and trees. Invasive species have incredible abilities to both thrive and multiply in their non-native environment. This is largely because native species are simply not capable of competing. Often times, they will be the first to emerge from dormancy and will hold their leaves far later into the growing season. In addition, they have an amazing ability to thrive in areas with heavy shading and high competition.
After one attempt controlling these species, many people will get discouraged by their efforts. Invasives have an incredible ability to prolifically stump sprout and at times even appear to come in thicker than ever before. This issue can often be mitigated by the application of oil-based herbicides (such as Pathfinder II) applied directly to the surface of freshly cut stumps. Controlling invasive trees, shrubs and vines is very similar to weeding your garden, but on a much larger scale. Simply cutting weeds in your garden you are almost guaranteed to see minimal long term results. However, by removing the entire root or by chemically treating the weed with herbicides you will likely see a dramatic impact.
Controlling invasive species populations is one of the best things you can do to your property to enhance aesthetics and increase property value. However, many people are dispirited by the thought of invasive species control because they see it as labor intensive work with minimal reward associated. With correct control techniques and the use of proper tools you will see how easy and rewarding this work can truly be.
** KEEP IN MIND ** The Village of Chenequa has strict ordinances that prevent cutting of any native or NON-NATIVE plants within 75’ of the water’s edge. These ordinances were put in place to keep our lakes clean and to keep the “Up North” feel that many of us have grown to know and love. Cutting trees and brush within the 75’ buffer increases erosion and sediment loading into the lakes and eliminates the natural screening of houses and auxiliary structures. If you wish to do any cutting within this buffer please contact the Village Forester.
For more information please feel free to contact the Village Forester clincoln@Chenequa.org or visit the informational links provided below:
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/woody/buckthorn/control.html
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs144p2_015111.pdf
https://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/invasiveplants/factsheets/pdf/bush-honeysuckle.pdf
