This column …
Over the past year, Not Wanted has identified some of Granby’s worst invasive plants, discussed control strategies, and described alternative plants. We could cover many more invasives—the state list includes almost 100. But starting with this column, instead of highlighting one Invasive of the Month, Not Wanted will focus on related areas such as what can be done each month, opportunities for collaboration, groups taking action, upcoming events, and resources.
October 7 Symposium
The central hub of invasive plant activity in our state is the CT Invasive Plant Working Group (CIPWG), which holds an annual day-long symposium to gather and share information. This year the symposium will be held entirely online on Oct. 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The theme is Realistic Solutions to Managing Invasive Plants, with breakout sessions aimed at both experts and laypersons, on both large and small parcels of land.
One presenter will describe a town Conservation Commission’s activities to control Japanese Knotweed, for example; others will discuss aquatic invasives, chemical and non-chemical treatments, using native alternatives, and more. Registration is required and includes access to taped sessions. Brochure and registration are here: cipwg.uconn.edu/2020-symposium/
October Invasive Action
Cut Japanese knotweed before seeds mature and disperse.
Pull small Japanese bittersweet seedlings up by the roots; cut or pull out established vines.
Pull up smaller Japanese barberry plants and cut larger bushes to the ground.
Cut, pull and mow multiflora rose, depending on size.
Look for small garlic mustard plants and pull carefully by the roots; plants pulled in the fall don’t pop up and explode with seeds in the spring.
Pull and cut autumn olive (and Russian olive, a potential invasive) shrubs, preferably before berries mature into seeds.
Cut and mow mugwort to prevent seeds from maturing and scattering.
Collaborate
Several local groups—Holcomb Farm, Granby Land Trust, McLean Game Refuge, Simsbury Garden Club, to name a few—are working to control invasive plants and might appreciate your willingness to help.
For more information on invasive plants, see granbyinvasiveplants.weebly.com