Thursday 19 May 2011

Balsam Bashing every Saturday


Himalayan balsam

Himalayan balsam is a pretty, but extremely invasive non-native plant that is spreading with devastating effects on the area. The plant quickly takes root and drowns out its surrounding vegetation as it grows up to 10ft. It also attracts bees which tend to favour it over smaller flowers meaning fewer native plants are pollinated; this has been detrimental to many farm crops.

Every Saturday in May and June St Cleer Parish Projects Group has organised a balsam bashing work party meeting at the open ground at Higher Tremar Coombe, PL14 5HP. Starting at 10am volunteers are invited to come and be the solution. Pulling up the balsam is easy as the plant has very short roots and this is the most effective way of reducing its spread.

If you are interested in coming to help simply turn up, wear appropriate clothes for the weather and good sturdy footwear. Remember a bottle of water and gloves, although the balsam is not spikey. To find out more about this invasive species take a look at the RHS website. For more information please call Derris Watson on 01579 347 632 or email, derris.watson@btinternet.com.

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