Invasive Plant Search : Residential Edition
By Sam Hunter , Natural Resource Manager
You may recall reading “ A Hunt for Invaders ” in last month ’ s edition of Lake Talk which discussed invasive species that can be found throughout the Lake Linganore community . Tree of Heaven , Japanese Honeysuckle , Mutltiflora Rose , and Garlic Mustard were some of the invaders discussed last month that can be found around the Lake Linganore Community . This month , we want to discuss invasive species that could be right at home in your yard or garden .
As we know from last month , there are different tiers of invasive plants outlined by the Maryland Department
of Natural Resources . A few common invasives that can sneak their way into your landscaping and spread throughout your yard and community forests include English Ivy , Japanese Barberry , Bamboo , Mimosa trees , and Butterfly Bushes . Tactics for removing these residential invaders can be hand cutting or spraying with an herbicide , although if you opt to use spray , Lake Linganore suggests hiring a professional as spraying can harm the environment and watersheds that we live in . There are many invasive specialists in the area that can safely remove your invasive species . Here are a few plants
to look out for around you yard ( you may recognize a couple from last month ’ s edition !).
If you ever have any questions about what native plants to plant in your garden , or are looking to find a replacement for an invasive plant you would like to remove , feel free to contact the Natural Resources Manager for Lake Linganore for suggestions . Make sure to always follow the community guidelines when altering your landscape , and remember to look for natives when planting you next landscape garden ! _______________________________ q
Bamboo ( Bambusa Vulgaris ): Bamboo can be very pretty and can quickly grow and create privacy stands , but it can also grow out of control very quickly . Bamboo can create thick stands and overtake any other plants on the forest floor around it , drowning out light to the ground . A good alternative to bamboo for your home is a native evergreen such as Eastern Red Cedar or Atlantic White Cedar , both native plants that can offer privacy as well as a habitat to local wildlife . q
Japanese Barberry ( Berberis thunbergii ): This bush ’ s dense stands create a perfect environment for ticks , leading to more potential exposure to Lyme disease to the community . These spiney bushes are also not preferred by deer , which lets them move into forest floors where deer have grazed the native species down . Do not let the berries and red color fool you , these bushes are extremely destructive to our native habitats ! Good native alternatives to Japanese Barberry in your yard or garden are Coastal Sweet Pepperbush or Northern Spicebush which both provide beautiful colors in your landscaping without harming other native species .
16 LakeTalk April 2024