 
Two of the top contenders for "worst" plant invasive in Riverwoods are buckthorn (left) and garlic mustard (right). Unfortunately, our woodlands suffer from quite a few invasive species.
 Among local insect invasives are the gypsy moth (caterpillar on left), emerald ash borer (shown below) and asian long-horned beetle.
Some plants the experts call "invasive" don't seem invasive, at least at first. They propagate by seeds carried by birds or the wind, or by underground rhizomes. It may take a few years for the seeds to germinate and the plants to become established. They can thrive because they have no natural enemies, are not a foodsource for native animals and insects, and frequently leaf out earlier in the spring and lose their leaves later in the fall than native plants. So even though you don't see the plant multiplying before your eyes, its progeny may be establishing themselves, preparing to continue the cycle of growth and propagation.
Why are invasive plants undesirable? They grow in dense stands that crowd out other plants, including newly sprouting trees, by blocking sunlight to the woodland floor and sometimes by changing soil chemistry. Invasives such as buckthorn and garlic mustard are imports, and are not eaten by local wildlife. So all that stands between them and woodland domination is ... you.
For a lot more information about invasives, as well as photos and videos, Click Here.
For some specific suggestions for alternatives to invasives, Click Here.
Our Guide, In Our Own Backyard, contains lots of information about desirable and undesirable plants in Riverwoods. To purchase a copy, Click Here.
Don't overlook the Village's reimbursement program for buckthorn and garlic mustard removal, as part of its tree planting and woodland management program. Note that the reimbursement request must be filed with the Village prior to commencement of work.
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(Photographs courtesy of Wisconsin DNR) |
