How to manage invasive plants in your yard?

What are invasive plants? Cal-IPC ( the California Invasive Plant Council) defines invasive plants as: plants that are not native to an environment, and once introduced, they establish, quickly reproduce and spread, and cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

Invasive plants cost California at

least $82 million each year. (Cal-IPC) Invasive plants specifically cause harm to our local environments and should be removed and their populations managed. To do our part to remove these plants first let's learn to identify them.

Step 1. Identify the species & Determine why the plant is growing in your yard.

There are many ways to do this but our favorite is using the app iNaturalist. Simply snap a photo of the plant and identify the species.

How to use the iNaturalist app

If it is not clear whether or not it is an invasive plant you can cross reference the species with on the San Diego invasive plants database.

https://www.cal-ipc.org/plants/profiles/

Learn about its growth habit, native range, preferred conditions, and note when it flowers and seeds.

Now, why is it growing in your yard? Is it there because it has no competition? Many of California's invasive plants thrive on disturbed land aka recently tilled, mowed, excavated areas. Is there a parent population nearby that is blowing seeds or propagating into your space? Understanding why it's growing can help you develop a better plan for removing it.

Step 2. A plan.

There are many methods of removal, and it is important to pick a method that suits your specific invasive plant problem. When selecting a removal method, consider the size of the infestation, the specific characteristics of the invasive plant, and the impact on desirable plants and the environment. Here are some details on different removal methods and their effectiveness:

Example 1: Targeted removal by hand is often the best option for removing invasive plants in small infestations. This method involves physically pulling or using a shovel to remove the entire plant, including its roots. Hand removal is effective for species with shallow roots or those that spread through runners or rhizomes. It allows for precise removal, minimizing damage to surrounding desirable plants.

Removal tips for Saharan Mustard (Brassica sp)

Example 2: Smothering is an effective method for areas that need to be completely cleared of plants, ex for new garden establishments or walkways. This method works by blocking out light, causing the plants to die and preventing seeds from germinating. Smothering can be achieved using various materials, including cardboard, weed fabric, mulch, or a combination of these items. These materials are placed over the affected area, effectively creating a barrier that inhibits plant growth. In some cases, the heat generated by the smothering device, such as black plastic or a tarp, can further aid in killing the plants and their seeds by cooking the ground beneath.

Example 3: Other methods, such as burning and removal by herbicide, can also be effective, but they require careful consideration and research before use. Burning is suitable for managing larger areas with dense vegetation but should be carried out under controlled conditions, following local regulations and safety protocols. Herbicides can be effective for certain invasive plant species, but it is crucial to understand that not all herbicides are suitable for every situation. Thorough research is necessary to identify the appropriate herbicide for the target plant, considering factors such as its effectiveness, application method, and potential impact on the environment and non-target plants. It is essential to follow recommended safety guidelines and apply herbicides carefully to minimize harm to users and the surrounding environment.

Tips:

1. Rhizomatous plants need to have their taproot removed, so it's easier to remove these invasive plants when the ground is wet and soft.

2. Annual plants need to be removed before they flower so more seeds do not spread into the seed bank.

Step 3. Apply strategies to mitigate the chance of invasive returning.

Once you have addressed the immediate issue of invasive plants in your yard, it's crucial to implement strategies that will help prevent their return. Building a healthy soil competition and promoting the growth of native plants are effective methods to resist invasions by weeds. Here are some ways to accomplish this:

1. Mulching: Mulching unplanted areas annually is an excellent practice to build healthy soil and create a barrier against invasive seeds. A layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, not only suppresses weed growth but also improves soil moisture retention and nutrient availability for desired plants.

2. Selecting Better Plants: Fill the spaces previously occupied by invasive plants with superior alternatives. Choose plants that serve the needs of your home, community, and local environment. Consider factors such as aesthetic appeal, wildlife support, and low-maintenance requirements. Increase competition against invasive plants by replanting the cleared areas with native plant species. Native plants are well-adapted to the local environment and can outcompete invasive species. They contribute to the health of local ecosystems, provide habitat for wildlife, and enhance the overall beauty of your yard. By consciously selecting desirable plants, you create an environment that is less hospitable to invasive species.

3. Proper Maintenance: The next best strategy for managing invasive plants in your yard is to build it into your routine. Regularly monitor your yard for signs of invasive plants returning and take immediate action to remove them. By incorporating regular weed pulling sessions into your monthly maintenance schedule, you can make significant progress in controlling invasive plants.

Here are some key points to consider when implementing this strategy:

Prioritization: Recognize the importance of addressing invasive plants promptly. They can quickly crowd out native species, disrupt the ecosystem balance, and impact the health of other plants in your yard. By prioritizing weed pulling in your routine, you actively protect the well-being of your landscape.

Disposal: Properly dispose of the pulled weeds to prevent reinfestation. If possible, avoid composting invasive plants, as some can still spread through seeds or fragments.

Documentation: Keep a record of the invasive plants you encounter and the steps taken to manage them. This documentation will help you track progress, identify recurring problem areas, and adjust your approach if needed.

By implementing these strategies, you create an environment that is hostile to invasive plants while promoting the growth and success of desirable native species. With a healthy soil competition and a diverse array of well-adapted plants, your yard becomes more resilient and less prone to invasive plant encroachment.

Don't let invasive plants dictate the appearance and health of your landscape.

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