Neophytes
Neophytes are plant species that since 1492 have come to a region where they did not naturally occur. A few of these species are highly invasive and can have undesirable effects. Neophytes compete with native plant species. As a result, the development of native habitats is affected, and the use of these areas by certain animal species is hindered or even prevented
Giant Hogweed – Heracleum mantegazzianum
Appearance and hazards
Giant Hogweed is a member of the umbellifer family and can grow over 2 meters tall. Its flower can reach a diameter of up to 80 cm. The flowering period lasts from June to September. This impressive plant poses a particular threat because it is phototoxic: the plant’s sap can cause severe burns on human skin in combination with sunlight.
Control
Giant Hogweed has been controlled in our project area for a long time, mainly by digging it out. In some cases, the flower or seed head is removed first, before the rest of the plant is removed. It is important to ensure proper personal protection when doing this!
Himalayan Balsam – Impatiens glandulifera
Appearance and hazards
Himalayan Balsam can grow up to 3 meters tall. The leaves are up to 25 cm long and 5 cm wide, lance-shaped, pointed, and sharply toothed. The flowers are pink and bloom from June to September. They develop into explosive seed pods, which contribute to the plant’s rapid spread. Himalayan Balsam forms large, dominant stands along water bodies and in wetlands, suppressing native vegetation in these areas.
Control
Himalayan Balsam is controlled by pulling it out or mowing. This is done several times per year.
Japanese Knotweed – Fallopia japonica
Appearance and hazards
Japanese Knotweed can grow up to 3 m tall. The leaves are up to 20 cm long and have a truncated base. The small white flowers appear from July onwards. Japanese Knotweed spreads vegetatively via rhizomes. It forms dense, dominant stands, particularly along water bodies and ditches, displacing native vegetation in these habitats.
Control
Japanese Knotweed can be controlled by pulling it out, digging it up, or covering the stands with UV-resistant tarps over an extended period. Currently, we have not yet begun controlling the occurrences of Japanese Knotweed in our project area.