Granby Drummer (https://granbydrummer.com/author/david-desiderato/)
This may be the last picture of the grandparent Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) at Holcomb Farm. A notable tree by any definition, three feet across, it was probably intentionally planted decades ago directly across the field from the Holcombs’ front door.
A potent team of Invasive Plant Activists (IPAs) converged on the Red Trail West at Holcomb Farm in November to continue repairing the damage borne of our love of intense fall colors (see photo).
Today, there are two kinds of gardeners. Gardener one has experienced an overwhelming, sickening infestation of jumping worms.
Gardener two has not—yet.
It sometimes seems impossible to make even a dent against invasives, but a dedicated bunch of volunteers are making big progress in visible public places. Property lines mean nothing to invasive plants, so every step we take at home benefits our neighbors as well.
Did you hear the news? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness maps were recently revised, placing Granby on the cusp of zones 6a and 6b, a couple notches warmer than we were.
For four years, I’ve written Not Wanted columns in a neutral, objective style. This one is different.
April’s Not Wanted column detailed the invasion of spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), considered the worst plant pest since the spongy moth (formerly gypsy moth). Since 2014 it has hitchhiked into a dozen states via egg masses attached to trains, lumber and other moving objects.
Invasives are the opposite of rare. A third of all the vegetation in the northeast hails from Asia, according to native plant scientist Dr. Doug Tallamy.
Action against invasives never ends. Put your feet up and choose from the following resources to boost your long-term game. They have been purposely chosen because they address plants in our region.
Got a way with words and pictures? Care about the health of Granby’s birds and bees? Submit a Pro-Pollinator Sign Design.