All articles tagged with #buckthorn
Scientists have discovered a fungus that shows promise in controlling the spread of invasive buckthorn, a plant species that threatens native ecosystems. The fungus, called Chondrostereum purpureum, has been found to inhibit the growth of buckthorn by attacking its root system. This biological control method could potentially provide an environmentally friendly solution to managing invasive species and protecting biodiversity.
A University of Minnesota research team has discovered that previous management strategies for combating Buckthorn, an invasive species, were based on incorrect assumptions. The team found that 97% of Buckthorn seeds germinate in the first year, debunking the belief that the seeds could last up to six years in the soil. This new information allows for more effective management practices that target smaller Buckthorn plants, which create dense mats and harm native plants. The best time to address Buckthorn is in late October and November when its dark green leaves are easily visible against the fall landscape.