Those who care for a garden, orchard, or patio know how important it is to keep the plant species that inhabit it under control. Sooner or later, the need arises to manage the invasive plants, plants that, due to their aggressive nature and adaptability, can quickly displace native flora, affect biodiversity, and turn our green spaces into areas that are difficult to manage.
Why are invasive plants a problem?
The invasive plants represent one of the most serious ecological challenges. Their expansion causes a significant loss of biodiversity, negatively impacts agriculture, livestock, the structure of ecosystems, and even human health. Although their spread is often silent, they can alter their environment, compete for resources, and limit the survival of other plant species. This problem makes it essential to understand both their life cycle and the most appropriate strategies to address them without exacerbating the problem.
Prevention: The best strategy against invasive plants
The key to preventing the advance of these species is in the preventionBefore introducing any new plant into the garden, it is essential learn about its invasive nature or exoticism and consult official lists of species that are dangerous to the local environment. In addition to avoiding planting them, it's advisable to monitor access points—pots, compost, and agricultural machinery—as they often serve as pathways for the arrival of seeds or root fragments.
It's important to note that if we detect an invasive species in our garden, we must act quickly to prevent its spread, consulting with environmental experts or authorities if necessary to ensure proper identification and eradication.
Natural and homemade methods to eliminate invasive plants
Before resorting to chemical solutions, the most responsible thing to do is to test Natural medicine that are sustainable and less harmful to the environment. Below, we show you the most effective methods:
- Boiling water: Pour boiling water directly onto invasive plants to destroy tissue and roots. It's quick and effective in localized areas, but avoid splashing on desired plants.
- will: Sprinkle salt over the plants, or create a mixture dissolved in hot water to spray on the leaves. Sodium chloride dehydrates plants and hinders regrowth, although it can harm the soil, so apply it carefully.
- Vinegar: The acetic acid in vinegar burns leaves, and is especially effective on young plants. To enhance the effect, mix one and a half liters of vinegar, the juice of one lemon, and one tablespoon of liquid soap, applying it on sunny days.
- Cornmeal: Sprinkle cornmeal over the soil to inhibit seed germination. Use it after removing invasive plants to prevent new growth.
- Diary paper: Cover the affected area with several sheets of newspaper and add soil on top. This blocks out sunlight, weakening and drying out the plants and slowing seed germination.
- Manual start: Pull out the plants by the roots, especially if the invasion is small. Use a hoe and be sure to remove all root fragments to prevent regrowth.
- Lethal mixtures: For very tough weeds, combine boiling water with salt or vinegar (or both) to enhance the results, but remember that this area could remain unproductive for a while.
- Borax: Dilute 280 grams of borax in 2,5 liters of water and spray it on the leaves. It's effective but should be used with caution, as its toxicity can affect the soil and other plants.
Mechanical, chemical, and biological methods: advanced options for controlling invasive pests
In severe infestations, it is advisable to resort to additional methods:
- Mechanical method: Consists in manual or machine extraction of plants, including roots and underground parts. This is the safest for the environment, but requires planning, as the use of heavy machinery can disturb the soil and disperse seeds if not managed properly. Removal should be done carefully to prevent fragments from spreading the species. You can also consult information on invasive in the local environment.
- Chemical method: Requires the use of herbicides Selective or non-selective. For example, metribuzin kills specific plants, while glyphosate targets all vegetation. It's essential to protect yourself with gloves and a mask, read the instructions carefully, and avoid applying near ornamental species or vegetable gardens. You should wait at least a month before planting in the treated area, and never use these products in pots. For more information, see how to remove invasive rhizomes.
- Biological method: It consists of introducing natural enemies of the invasive species, such as certain insects. This method is complex and requires extensive research to prevent the control agent from becoming a new pest. For example, the eucalyptus weevil and the prickly pear scale have proven effective in certain regions, but must be used under scientific supervision. More details at biological control of invasive species.
Invasive plant waste management and spatial restoration
Once removed, Never add plant debris from invasive species to compost, as they could sprout again. The safest thing to do is to move them in sealed bags to a clean point or leave them in opaque bags until they decompose completely. After eradication, it is advisable to plant native species that will compete effectively and strengthen the garden's resistance to future invasions. You can also inquire about resistant native plants.
Case studies and additional tips
La Tradescantia rivernsis, known as "man's love," is one of the most tenacious invaders in shady gardens. Eliminating it requires carefully removing all fragments, avoiding the use of brush cutters that scatter stems. Eradication is complicated in stony soils, so patience is essential. Once removed, the remains should be safely disposed of, not composted, and covering the area with opaque plastic may be recommended to prevent regrowth.
In addition, planting resistant native species such as vinca minor, Hypericum calycinum, Thymus serpyllum, Cerastium tomentosum o Arctostaphylos uva-ursi It helps prevent re-invasions by providing healthy plant competition and soil protection. For more tips, visit plants to protect the soil.
Managing invasive plants requires a comprehensive approach, combining prevention, responsible removal, and restoration with native species. A healthy garden or orchard is possible by applying these methods, while protecting both the environment and local biodiversity.
