HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem XI - Buckthorn Neighborhood Guide Buckthorn Bust
Neighborhood Guide
DEVELOPED BY TREE TRUST FOR:
City of Saint Paul, Division of Parks and Recreation
"6� Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
FUNDING PROVIDED BY:
USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Area, an equal opportunity provider
l RIEE JKTRUST
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii WORKSHEETS, HANDOUTS, ETC.
a - Bust Your Own Buckthorn: Individual Buckthorn Handout
b - Planning Checklist for a Buckthorn Bust
The Problem with Buckthorn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 c - Suggested Planning Calendar
d - Committee Worksheet
e - Treasurer's Expense Report Form
f - Fundraising Worksheet
Identifying Buckthorn 2 g - Volunteer Sign-up Sheet
y g h - Buckthorn Bust Participation Form
i Before Buckthorn Bust Worksheet
j Equipment and Supplies Worksheet
Organizing a Private Property Buckthorn Bust. . . . . . . . . 4 k - Press Release: What is so Bad About Buckthorn?
I - Press Release: Busting Buckthorn in Your Neighborhood
m- Buckthorn Inventory Homeowners' Map
n - Doorhanger Sample
Organizing a Public Property Buckthorn Bust . . . . . . . . . 7 o - Property Owner Sign-up Sheet
p - Press Release: Learn to Remove Backyard Buckthorn
q - Neighborhood/Block Buckthorn Bust Worksheet
r Public Property Buckthorn Bust Worksheet
Removal Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 s Buckthorn Bust Equipment Checklist
t Volunteer Buckthorn Buster
u - Buckthorn Bust Team Leader
v - Suggested Buckthorn Removal Timeline
Buckthorn Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 w- Volunteer Liability Release Form
x - After Buckthorn Bust Worksheet
y - Press Release: Neighborhood Busted Buckthorn
Plant Replacement and Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
PUBLICATIONS
How to Prune Trees
Plant a Tree the Right Way
More Information on Buckthorn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
i
The Buckthorn Bust Neighborhood Guide
Community forestry is people working together
to enhance their community and urban forest by
planting and caring for trees, shrubs, and
other plants. YOU, as a resident of your
community, play an important role in This guidebook is a resource for
urban and community forestry. The communities, neighborhoods
plants on your property are part of your and individuals to develop
community's urban forest. There are many � removal programs for invasive
economic, environmental, and social advantages plants, specifically buckthorn.
to a healthy urban forest. Trees create beautiful
places to live and work, connect people with the YOU can help by removing buckthorn and other
natural environment, reduce energy costs, provide invasive plants from your own property, and by
homes for wildlife, and increase property values. getting involved with organizing or carrying out a
buckthorn removal project in your community.
ALL OF US are responsible for the health of our You play a major role in the health and
urban forest. The types and management of vitality of your community forest.
plants in the community and on your own
property determine the health of the urban Join in and help improve the health of your
forest. Invasive plants, such as buckthorn, are urban forest.'
detrimental to the health of the urban forest.
They threaten the future of urban forests by
reducing biodiversity, destroying wildlife habitat, How to use this Guide
out-competing other important native plants, and Chapters 1, 2, and 5-7 should provide the
changing the landscape. Imagine an urban forest general background and technical information
that is one enormous thicket of buckthorn. There about buckthorn that is needed to start a
would be no diversity of plants; no place for removal program. Chapters 3 and 4 should be
songbirds to nest in the lower canopy; only one used as a tool to help communities through the
type of fruit for small animals. Healthy established process of organizing and implementing a
urban forests depend on the removal of successful buckthorn removal program on both
invasive plants. private and public property. Throughout the
guide various worksheets are referenced in
parenthesis where they will be most helpful.
These worksheets are all in back of the guide in
the order they appear in the text. Chapter 8
gives useful resources and contacts that
communities should consult for additional
information and assistance.
ii
The Problem with Buckthorn
ommon Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartics) neighbor's backyard. Buckthorn fruits produce 2-4
and Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) are seeds that remain viable for up to six years, which
the two types of non-native, invasive adds up to a lot of buckthorn waiting to sprout!
buckthorns found in Minnesota. Both were Birds eat the buckthorn fruit and then deposit the
introduced to North America from Europe in the seeds everywhere on the fly. Because buckthorn
1800s. These buckthorn species have long been tolerates shade, full-sun, drought and bad soil, it
used as hedgerows, ornamental shrubs and grows just about anywhere. As a result, buckthorn
shelterbelts in homeowners' yards, but also grow quickly moves from pruned, well-kept yards and
into small trees. invades other areas. Buckthorn does not stay put,
whether you want it to or not. So, together let's
Even though buckthorn makes a nice full hedge in start removing buckthorn before it takes over and
a yard, it also makes an impenetrable, messy destroys our urban forest. We need your help!
thicket in parks, roadsides, forests, and your
M�
fe
understory of buckthorn
Bad things about buckthorn:
out-competes our native plants for light, contributes to erosion by shading out plants on
moisture and nutrients the forest floor
• hosts crop pests: crown rust fungus (Puccinia
reduces species diversity of plants and song
birds in forests coronata)and soybean aphid (Aphis glycines)
• forms an impenetrable thicket or understory threatens the future of our forests, prairies,
layer (picture) wetlands and other habitats
• destroys wildlife habitat For these reasons, in 2001 the Minnesota
• provides only one type of fruit for songbirds Department of Agriculture declared both
when other native foods have diminished Common and Glossy Buckthorn RESTRICTED
• has seeds that remain viable up to 6 years NOXIOUS WEEDS. This means that sale,
•
transportation, or movement of these
contains a laxative that causes birds to deposit plants is prohibited statewide by the
undigested seeds Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
• has messy fruits that stain cars, decks and
concrete SUOt7Wft
• tolerates shade, full-sun, drought and poor soils
brrllre—s ot � d wry rouo4
• lacks natural controls like insects and plant up to C,ur� ' St and �, a0yr��Ws s
diseases that attack it. As of now, there is no r �� r 5f��f,qr��f?7 5,
biological control agent for buckthorn. `� `
1
Identifying Buckthorn
Bad types Of Buckthorn; Common Buckthorn /PBV77FY yoVk EV'0 Y1�r�owrr� �
and Glossy Buckthorn are the two invasive, �°� 40 f �r�tfy
non-native Buckthorn species found in Minnesota. r5 � rsts p to 9eLLt077 ' r
COMMON BUCKTHORN
SCIENTIFIC NAME Rhamnus cathartica
-5 pd IF of
l
OTHER COMMON European Buckthorn ��, car veins_
NAME �+
NURSERY CULTIVARS None ' }
TYPF OF HABITAT IT Invades primarily dry areas, like wood- toothed edge 4_
INVADES lands, savannas, prairies, abandoned
fields, roadsides; will grow in full sun
and dense shade
spine a{
SHAPF OF PLANT Height = 10-25 ft; upright, oval form tip
LEAVES 0 egg-shaped with finely toothed edges
dark green, dull to glossy
opposite at tip of stem
3-5 pairs of curved leaf veins
leaves stay dark green and on the
tree late into autumn _ large Fru i{
cluster
STFMS 0 opposite buds %
sharp thorn at tip of twig! -
FLOWERS 0 produced in May opposite leaves
small, yellowish green color
4 petals
FRUIT AND SFFD 0round berry-like fruit -1/4" diameter
arranged in large clusters spine at
green to black color tip
each fruit contains 3-4 seeds
opposite buds
2
GLOSSY BUCKTHORN
7-9 pd IF of
SCIENTIFIC NAME Frangula alnus ;*;` ""
IeaFveins
u
OTHERCOMMON Fen Buckthorn, Alder Buckthorn
NAME -,
NURSERY CULTIVARSa, "}
Columnaris(Tall Hedge Buckthorn)— ,..,
narrow, columnar form. toothless edge
Asplenifolia(Fernleaf Buckthorn)—
narrow, fern-like leaves.
TYPE OF HABITAT IT Invades primarily wet areas, like bogs, 'Aspler)LGI(a' lea
INVADES marshes, river banks, wetlands, pond FernleaFBuckthorn
edges; will also grow in dry areas; will
grow in full sun and dense shade.
SHAPE OF PLANT Height= 10-18 ft; upright, oval form
LEAVES oval shaped with toothless edges
(Frangula alnus)or narrow and
fernlike(asplenifolia)
dark green and glossy, underside of
leaves may be hairy
alternate on stem
3-5 pairs of curved leaf veins
8-9 pairs of leaf veins `
leaves stay green and on the tree
late into autumn
STEMS 0 alternate buds
\
NO thorn at tips of twig
alternate leaves
FLOWERS 0 produced in late May-June
small, creamy-green color bud at
5 petals tip
FRUIT AND SLED 0 round berry-like fruit-1/4"
diameter alternate buds
produces less fruit than Common
Buckthorn
red-brown to black color
each fruit contains 2-3 seeds
3
Organizing a Private Property Buckthorn Bust
Wat is a Private Property Buckthorn Bust? -Organized by a group of leaders and volunteers
-Homeowners are directed and educated about
Individual homeowner removal the buckthorn problem, how to remove it, and
-A neighborhood or block removal/collection day what to plant in its place.
INDIVIDUAL BUCKTHORN BUST—You can help! 0 Create committees within the team like
Volunteers, Education, Advertising, Buckthorn
• Even if your neighborhood or community is not inventory, etc. (d- Committee Worksheet,
organizing a Buckthorn Bust, you can still help! e- Treasurer's Expense Report Form).
Remove the buckthorn plants on your own 0 Determine how you will fund the Buckthorn
property (Chapter 5). Bust. If needed, apply for a grant through a
• Removing buckthorn plants on your own neighborhood association or other organiza-
property prevents the dispersal of seeds to your tion, or charge each participating homeowner
neighbor's yard as well as nearby parks, pond a fee to help with collection and disposal costs
edges, roadsides, etc. (f- Fundraising Worksheet).
• Pass on information about buckthorn removal 2. Recruit volunteers
to your neighbors and friends (Chapter 5 and 0 Find individuals to help with organizing and
6) or(a - Bust Your Own Buckthorn Handout). implementing the Buckthorn Bust and assign
• Check Chapters 5 & 7 to see how to remove them to a committee. (g- Volunteer Sign-up
buckthorn and replace it with new plants. Sheet, h- Buckthorn Bust Participation Form)
0 Ask garden clubs, Rotary, Masons, Lions,
Veterans, religious, school and other service
NEIGH BORHOOD/BLOCK BUCKTHORN BUST groups to help on the day of the Buckthorn
Bust. For example, groups could be asked to
6-8 Months Before Buckthorn Bust help individual homeowners that want to
1. Organize a buckthorn team participate in the Buckthorn Bust day, but can
• Establish a team of individuals to organize not physically remove the plants by themselves.
the Buckthorn Bust.
• Recruit individuals from each block or 2-4 Months Before Buckthorn Bust
neighborhood to represent their area by 1. Make your action plan
being a block or community coordinator. You 0 Determine date and locations of
can also ask local political leaders, officials, Buckthorn Bust
and business leaders to be part of the team. 0 Plan the schedule for Buckthorn Bust
• Schedule monthly/weekly team meetings to (i- Before Buckthorn Bust Worksheet,
plan for the Buckthorn Bust (b - Planning j- Equipment and Supplies Worksheet).
Checklist for a Buckthorn Bust, c- Suggested 0 Send out bids to local licensed tree services to
Planning Calendar). have the buckthorn collected and disposed of
from participating homes on the day of the
Buckthorn Bust (Chapter 6).
4
2.Advertise your Buckthorn Bust 2. Train volunteers
Prepare a press release for a local newspaper 0 Organize and schedule a hands-on workshop
or newsletter (k- Sample Press Release: What for volunteers helping on Buckthorn Bust day.
is So Bad About Buckthorn?) informing the Teach them about the buckthorn problem and
neighborhood/block about the buckthorn the steps to removal, and also provide them
problem and ways that they can help. with educational materials. Go over the details
Advertise the details about your Buckthorn Bust for Buckthorn Bust (p - Sample Press Release:
(I-Sample Press Release:Busting Buckthorn in Learn to Remove Backyard Buckthorn).
Your Neighborhood).
3. Determine assignments for Buckthorn Bust
3. Inventory buckthorn on homeowner's property 0 Assign volunteers to help homeowners that
• Train individual volunteers that will be helping need assistance with removal.
with inventory of the buckthorn. Find trained 0 Assign a group to deliver refreshments to
master gardeners or tree care advisors to volunteers or participating homeowners.
assist with the inventory. 0 Delegate a group to set up and monitor
• Map/record where and how much buckthorn is a Buckthorn Station where homeowners can
on each homeowner's property in the neighbor ask questions, get last minute tips about
hood/blocks where the Buckthorn Bust will removal and disposal, or borrow tools
take place (m - Buckthorn Inventory (q -Neighborhood/Block Buckthorn Bust
Homeowner Map). Worksheet).
• Deliver or leave a doorhanger to notify home 0 Arrange for all equipment needed (s-Buck-
owners that have buckthorn on their property. thorn Bust Equipment Checklist).
Make sure they know who they should contact
if they want to participate in the Buckthorn 2 Weeks before Buckthorn Bust
Bust or have any questions in - Doorhanger Finalize all participants in the Buckthorn Bust
Sample). Notifying homeowners may require a Notify public works or other agencies to secure
second literature drop or phone call. "No Parking" signs where needed.
1-2 Months Before Buckthorn Bust 1 Week before Buckthorn Bust
1. Determine the homeowners that will Prepare final pickup map for the hired tree
participate in Buckthorn Bust Day service contractor.
• Assemble a list of participants(o- Property Deliver "No Parking" signs to each participant
Owner Sign-up Sheet, h- Buckthorn Bust with instructions, so that the contractor can
Participation Form). Make any necessary phone easily pick up properly stacked buckthorn.
calls to find out or confirm who is participating.
• Mail letters to participants with details about 1 Day Before Buckthorn Bust
the Buckthorn Bust. Include date, time, removal
methods (Chapter 5), disposal/collection 0 Drive the pickup route to determine if there are
information (Chapter 6), who to call with any changes that need to be made.
questions, and name of block coordinator. 0 Make sure all "No Parking" signs are in place;
• Answer any questions from property owners. otherwise notify property owner.
• Create a map of pickup sites for hired tree
service contractor. 5
Cray of Buckthorn Bust
• Make sure all volunteers are in the right place.
• Check to be sure all pickups were completed.
• Celebrate!
After Buckthorn Bust
• x-After Buckthorn Bust Worksheet
• Send out "I busted buckthorn for a better
backyard" certificates or thank you letters to ; tl
recognize all volunteers and participants
• Assess the Buckthorn Bust by discussing what r ,
worked and what did not work. Note any
changes you would make for future
Buckthorn Busts.
• Prepare a press release that details results
and participation of the Buckthorn Bust
(y- Press release: Neighborhood Busted
Buckthorn).
• You may wish to organize a plant replace
mens/design workshop for participants
(Chapter 7). OOM
gym"
rt4a'.S w
tr
6
Organizing a Public Property Buckthorn Bust
What is a Public Property Buckthorn Bust? community as well as the city
People work together to remove buckthorn
-A buckthorn removal day on a public property from the public site on a particular day
project site, like a park or roadside Volunteers are directed and educated about
Organized and implemented by both a group the buckthorn problem, how to remove it, and
of leaders and volunteers from the what to plant in its place.
12-18 Months Before Buckthorn Bust you should send out bids to licensed tree
1. Determine public property site and acquire services to have the buckthorn collected and
appropriate permission for removal, disposed of from the removal site (Chapter 6).
2. Organize a buckthorn team 3-6 Months Before Buckthorn Bust
• Establish a team of individuals to organize the 1. Advertise your Buckthorn Bust
Buckthorn Bust. 0 Prepare a press release for a local newspaper
• Recruit individuals from around the area of the or newsletter (k- Sample Press Release: What
removal to be community coordinators. Work is So Bad About Buckthorn?) informing the
with local political leaders, city officials, and community about the buckthorn problem and
business leaders including the agencies ways that they can help. Advertise the details
responsible for the public property. about your Buckthorn Bust.
• Schedule monthly/weekly team meetings to 2.Recruit volunteers
plan for the removal (b - Planning Checklist for Ask garden clubs, Rotary, Masons, Lions,
a Buckthorn Bust, c- Suggested Planning Veterans, religious, school, and service groups
Calendar). as well as community members to help on
• Create committees within the team like Buckthorn Bust (g - Volunteer Sign-up Sheet).
Volunteers, Education, Advertising, Buckthorn 0 Assemble a list of volunteers. Organize volun-
Inventory, etc. (d- Committee Worksheet, teers into teams and designate team leaders.
e - Treasurer's Expense Report Form).
• Determine how you will fund the Buckthorn 3.Inventory Buckthorn on removal site
Bust. If needed, apply for a grant or seek fund Coordinate with city/property owners to
ing from the city (f-Fundraising Worksheet). arrange for the inventory.
Train individual volunteers that will help with
9-12 Months before Buckthorn Bust inventory of the buckthorn. Find master
1. Make your action plan gardeners, tree care advisors or Department of
• Determine date of Buckthorn Bust Natural Resources staff to assist with training
• Plan the schedule for Buckthorn Bust (i- Before and inventory.
Buckthorn Bust Worksheet, - Equipment and 0 Map/record where and how much buckthorn
Supplies Worksheet). is on the removal site. Determine the removal
• Check with the city or public property owner to strategies you will use depending on the sizes
see if they have staff or a contractor to help and amount of buckthorn in each area of
with removal, collection and disposal. If not, the site.
continued
I
1-2 Months Before Buckthorn Bust assignments and make any changes that need
1. Determine assignments for Buckthorn Bust to be made.
0 Assign groups along with their group leader to
a specific task or area of the removal site I Day Before Buckthorn Bust
0 Assign some volunteers to run a refreshment 0 Make sure all parking and directional signs are
table since removing buckthorn is hard work in place for volunteers.
(r-Public Property Buckthorn Bust Worksheet). 0 Have portable toilets delivered if needed.
0 Arrange for all equipment needed (s-Buck- 0 Double check that you have all equipment
thorn Bust Equipment Checklist). including the first aid kit.
2 Train volunteers Day of Buckthorn Bust
0 Mail letters to team leaders and volunteers 0 Welcome volunteers and start the Buckthorn
with details about the Buckthorn Bust. Include Bust with a short training meeting.
date, time, location, directions to the site, who 0 Have volunteers sign a liability release form
to call with questions, name of community (w- Volunteer Liability Release Form).
coordinator, team leader, and other team 0 Make sure all volunteers and groups are in the
members (t- Volunteer Buckthorn Buster, right place.
u- Buckthorn Bust Team Leader). 0 Check to be sure the pickup was completed.
0 Organize and schedule a hands-on workshop 0 Celebrate!
for team leaders helping on Buckthorn Bust.
Teach team leaders about the buckthorn After Buckthorn Bust
problem and the removal strategies 0 (x-After Buckthorn Bust Worksheet)
they will be using. Go over details for the 0 Send out "I busted buckthorn" certificates or
Buckthorn Bust. thank you letters to recognize all volunteers.
0 Answer any questions of volunteers. 0 Assess the Buckthorn Bust by discussing what
worked and what did not work. Note any
3. Secure necessary permits for access and street changes you would make for future Buckthorn
closings. Busts.
0 Since new buckthorn plants will continue to
2 Weeks Before Buckthorn Bust grow, discuss future control and support for
0 Finalize team leaders and other volunteers for long-term programs to remove invasive species.
the Buckthorn Bust. 0 Prepare a press release that details results
0 Notify public works or other agencies to secure and participation in the Buckthorn Bust
parking signs or barricades where needed. (y- Sample Press Release: Neighborhood
0 Order any other informational or directional Busted Buckthorn).
banners or signs you may need. 0 Develop a plant replacement plan if needed.
I Week Before Buckthorn Bust
0 Coordinate with contractor or agency to double
check correct location and time for removal
and/or pickup of the buckthorn.
0 Review Buckthorn Bust schedule and volunteer
8
Removal Strategies
uckthorn removal;
�is labor intensive ������h�s ���������
combines several different strategies
needs to be implemented over several years in s carat l rs aW;rey. iiut
order to successfully remove buckthorn and ON����ut�s���l� �
reestablish the area with native species � r �ct���might
(v- Suggested Buckthorn Removal Timeline).
MECHANICAL CONTROL larger than the cut stump. Drill nail holes around
the entire can 2" below the can opening. Set the
Remove buckthorn from late June up to when can over the stump and push it into the soil at
cold weather and snow are here to stay. Use a least 1". Nail through the holes into the stump.
combination of pulling, digging, and cutting where Leave in place for two years. If green sprouts
plants are sparse; lightly pack disturbed soil emerge, remove them as soon as they appear.
resulting from pulling and digging to discourage These shoots are a sign you need a larger
reinfestation by buckthorn. diameter can.
Har7d removal
Pull out small seedlings by hand. Seedlings pull
out most easilywhen stem is less than 3/8 inch in Removal
Strategies Type of Buckthorn
diameter. Removal is easier when soil is moist. HAND REMOVAL Small seedlings <3/8" diameter
Diggir7g DIGGING Larger seedlings and underground roots
Buckthorn doesn't re-sprout from underground WEED WRENGH'M Stem 3/8"tot�/z"diameter
ROOT TALONTM
roots. However, replacement plants benefit CUTTING Tree-like shrubs with trunk >1/z"
from digging the roots. Before you dig call your diameter
state's one-call agency (Chapter 8) to locate all TIN CAN METHOD Cut stump
underground utility lines. CHEMICAL Cut stump, Frill cut, or Basal Bark
Weed WrerwhTM or Root TaIenTM TREATMENT Treatment on large buckthorn plants
Use to pull up larger plants (3/8" -1112" diameter).
Rent from a hardware store or order at
www.lam edesi n.com or lmovAL TiPs
p g • Make sure those removing thorny buckthorn have
www.canonbal.org/weed.html up-to-date tetanus shots.
Cuttir7g • Use repellent if it is tick season.
• Wear heavy weight clothes like denim.Light weight
Cut woody plants larger than 1 /Z" diameter. Then fabric is easily shredded by common buckthorn.
chemically treat the remaining stump to prevent • Use safety glasses and leather gloves.
re-sprouting (next page)or use the tin can method. • stronger teens or adults should move large
buckthorn wood since it is very heavy.
Tir7 car? method • Remove female(fruiting)buckthorn plants first
This method can be used instead of chemical • Prioritize removals.Target quality wooded areas
treatment to prevent a cut stump from only marginally infested that still have pockets of
resprouting. When cutting, leave 3" stump above native plants.Or choose visible areas in parks or
the soil. Use a tin can several inches in diameter along trails.
9
CHEMICAL CONTROL ADDITIONAL CONTROL STRATEGIES FOR
TRAINED PROFESSIONALS ONLY
Misuse of pesticides can injure applicator The following are control strategies that are only
and/or damage the environment. Always suggested for larger projects sites or a Public
READ THE LAPEL before applying chemicals! Property Buckthorn Bust, and should not be used
Know what you are doing before you start. by individual homeowners or volunteers. Contact
Use proper equipment and wear proper professionals for advice, appropriate chemicals
protective wear. and application.
Cut.Stump Treatment Foliar Chemical Treatment
Cut stumps can be chemically treated with a A chemical spray can be used to treat buckthorn
paint-brush, wick applicator, or a low volume plants up to 3 feet tall. Foliar sprays are best for
sprayer. It is very important that bark on the sides understory layers, where buckthorn infestation is
of the stump, including all exposed roots, be high. Spraying should be applied during autumn,
treated as well as the top of the stump. Apply and when spraying only use a fine spray just to
chemicals immediately or within 24 hours after wet all foliage. It is not necessary to spray such a
the cut to be most effective against re-sprouting. heavy amount that it is dripping off the leaves.
Use Stronger Roundup, which is 25% glyphosate
in areas not directly next to water. In areas next to Frill Cuts with Chemical Treatment
water, call your Department of Natural Resources Wound the bark with an axe around the circum-
for requirements. When removing buckthorn from ference of the buckthorn tree trunk to create a
highly infested areas, it is helpful to mark the cut frill. Then apply chemical to exposed axed areas
stumps with colored flags. Cut stumps are easily and adjacent bark. This is an effective method for
lost under debris and other brush. large trees that can be left standing.
CHn AL ArrHcnnau Trs Basal Bark Chemical Treatment
Apply directly to the bark at the base of the buck-
• late summer,autumn,and winter are the best thorn plant to provide effective control. Spray the
times to chemically treat buckthom,since the sap lowest 2 feet of bark around the entire circumfer-
is flowing toward the roots and this allows for ence of the tree. For buckthorn plants with less
maximum herbicide absorption.
than 2 inch diameter, only one side of the stem
• Autumn applications are less likely to damage now needs to be sprayed. This is a fast, effective
target plants,since buckthorn has a longer method of controlling larger trees on large sites.
growing season.This is also a convenient time
because buckthorn leaves remain green and
attached,while leaves of native plants are turning
color;falling,and gone,making buckthorn easier
to identify.
•When using a brush applicator on cut stumps,
use good quality brushes.Foam brushes quickly
disintegrate.
10
Buckthorn Disposal
ow that you have removed the buckthorn Buckthorn Bust is unique and may have different
from your site, how do you get rid of it? disposal requirements specific to the city or
Following are suggestions about how to dispose of community.
buckthorn brush. Keep in mind that each
BUCKTHORN BRUSH BUCKTHORN ROOTS
individual Buckthorn Bust Buckthorn roots should not be put through the
In many cities removed buckthorn can be included chipper, since there are often rocks and other
in yard waste that is picked up. Check with your debris on the roots that can damage the chipper
city about pick-up details, including times during machine and pose a danger for workers. So, check
the year when yard waste is picked-up and any if the tree service contractor will be chipping or
special requirements about how the brush needs just collecting the removed buckthorn on
to be stacked and/or bundled. Another option is Buckthorn Bust day. If it is being chipped, you
to contact your city about drop-off locations for should not include any roots unless they are
yard waste, where you may be able to bring your washed beforehand.
removed buckthorn brush. BUCKTHORN WOOD
Neighborhood/Block Buckthorn Bust If you know of woodworkers interested in this
For a Neighborhood/Block Buckthorn Bust, hire wood for carving or building purposes, get them
a certified, bonded and insured tree-service involved. Larger diameter log sections, at least 3
contractor to pick up or chip all removed inches in diameter, work best.
buckthorn from participating homes in one trip.
Once participating homeowners are confirmed,
make a pick-up map for the contractor with all
locations clearly marked. Notify participants � "�"plat-ur�Ca�cnoiu Tars
about staking and/or bundling instructions for DO:
correct pick-up. • Set your piles in the front yard dose to the side
walk but not overhanging it.
Public Property Buckthorn Bust • pile the buckdiom so that all the cut ends of the
For a Public Property Buckthorn Bust, coordinate branches are pointing towards the street.
with the city or land-owning public agency to
• Remove and vines tat may be growing around
arrange for removal, pick up and/or chipping
your buckthorn.
removed buckthorn from the site. Make sure to
check about how the buckthorn brush, roots, and DO NOT:
stumps should be stacked and/or bundled at the • Block public sidewalks or streets with buckthorn
public site for easy pick-up. branches trunks.
• Make piles taller than 4 ft.
• Include any unwashed buckthorn roots if your
brush will be chipped.
11
Plant Replacement and Design
Once buckthorn is removed from the property, beautify the area. Before selecting replacement
replacement plants need to be determined. This is plants, take time to outline your goals and ideas
a great opportunity to re-design the landscape to for the new landscape.
conserve energy, create wildlife habitat and
Reasons for planting flower gardens. Using a piece of tracing paper
1. Energy Conservation — Planting trees and over your map, draw a scheme for the use of
shrubs provides summer shade for you and your landscape. Draw in new trees and shrubs
your house. Planting on the west side of the where you want them. Focus on the plant char-
house or building helps because it shades the acteristics you would like instead of specific
house during the hottest time of the day. species - e.g. a 6' tall shrub that makes a good
However, the east side is also effective. For screen and grows in the shade. Keep in mind
larger lots, plant trees and shrubs as a wind maintenance issues like: Will I be able to get
break on the north and northwest sides of the my lawn mower easily to all turf areas? Also
house or building. consider plant sizes at maturity.
2. Aesthetics & Economics — Native trees and 3. Plant Selection — One of the best ways to select
shrubs add color and texture to the landscape. plants is to take your plan and list of plant
Plants help blend a building into the landscape, characteristics to your local nursery. They can
softening edges and screening foundations. show you species to fit your requirements.
Plants add value to your property. There are many different native woody plants
3. Wildlife habitat — Trees and shrubs create food used to replace buckthorn. The following tables
and shelter for wildlife, especially birds. contain suggestions for Minnesota. Consult
your local nursery, extension service, or other
4. Food for People — vegetable gardens and agencies.
fruit trees provide food and add variety to
the landscape. Replanting
For information about how to plant and care for
Planning Your Site trees and shrubs, see publications, Plant a Tree
1. Site Plan — Make an accurate map of your the Right Way and How to Prune Trees. Also view
lot, with house, trees and shrubs and other www.treetrust.org.
elements on it. Using graph paper is helpful.
Measure and sketch the house, sheds, Advantages of waiting 1-2 years before
driveways, sidewalks, decks, overhead and replanting:
underground utilities, septic tanks, drain fields, 1. Allows you to re-evaluate the space where the
trees (including the spread of the crown) and buckthorn used to be. Maybe you like the new
shrubs. Note which way is north. open space or would prefer to plant a new
2. Designing — Decide what uses you want from hedge somewhere else.
your home landscape. Your list might include: 2. Provides time to explore options for the type
play areas for children, screening for privacy, and design of your replacement plants.
pleasing views from certain windows, fall or 3. Gives time for the old buckthorn roots to decay,
spring color, shady areas, or vegetable or benefiting the soil for replanting.
12
RECOMMENDED PLANTS for replacing buckthorn
HEDGE PLANTS Size Form Zone Fall Color Flower Light Culture/Comments
Amelanchier spp. 20-30'h columnar 4-8 yellow, white O a Can form thickets.White fruit.Selected cultivars:
Serviceberry 12-20'w to oval copper to red pink 'Cumulus,' 'Majestic,''Autumn Brilliance,''Robin Hill.'
Aronia melanocarpa 3-6'h rounded 3-7 red white 010 Tolerant of wide range of soils.Selected cultivar:
Black chokeberry 2-6'w to upright to purple 'Autumn Magic.'
Buxusmicrophylla 2'h upright 4-9 copper ___ O Makes low formal hedge. One of the hardiest
var.koreana 2-3'w spreading to bronze boxwoods.
Korean littleleaf
boxwood
Cornus spp. 6-20'h rounded 3-8 yellow,red white O Check specific species and cultivars for details.
Dogwood 5-15'w to upright to purple yellow
Cotoneaster lucidus 8-10'h upright 2-6 red pink O Spreading branches.
Hedge cotoneaster 4-5'w
Hydrangea spp. 3-10'h rounded to 3-9 white, O a Check species for details.Some flowers change color
Hydrangea 3-15'w upright blue,pink with pH of soils.
Juniperus chinensis 12-20'h pyramidal 4-8 __ O Evergreen.Tolerant of wide range of soils and pH and
Chinese juniper 15-25'w urban environment;attracts birds.Selected cultivars:
'Iowa,''Mountbatten,''Spartan.'
Juniperus osteosperma 25'h pyramidal 3-8 O Evergreen. P rovides good screen.
Utah juniper 20'w
Philadelphus spp. 3-12'h upright 4-8 white O Check specific species and cultivars for details.
Mockorange 3-8'w oval
Physocarpus opulifolius 6-10'h rounded 2-7 white to O a Check cultivars for details. Cultivars with different color
Ninebark 4-8'w upright- pink foliage.
spreading
Picea glauca 4-6'h pyramidal 4-6 O Very slow growing.
White spruce 34w
Pinus mugo 15-20'h rounded to 3-7 O a Deep moist loam.Tolerant of calcareous soils.
Mugo pine 25-30'w pyramidal
Spiraea spp. 1-6'h rounded 3-8 yellow-orange, white to O a Check specific species for details.
Spirea 2-6'w red to purple red,pink
Syringa spp. 5-15h rounded to 3-7 green violet,pink O Check specific species and cultivars for details.
Lilacs 4-12'w upright to blue, white
spreading purple
Thuja occidentalis 10-25h pyramidal 3-7 O Evergreen,pH tolerant. Check specific cultivars for
Arborvitae 10-25'w details.
Viburnum spp. 6-15h rounded to 4-8 yellow,red cream O a Check specific species and cultivars for details.
Viburnums 6-10'w upright purple white
Cranberry
13
ORNAMENTAL Size Form Zone Fall Color Flower Light Culture/Comments
SHRUBS
Diervilla lonicera 3'h rounded 3-7 bronze to red yellow O() Interesting foliage color.
Dwarf bush 3'w spreading
honeysuckle
Prunus besseyi 5-6'h upright to 3-6 __ white O Tolerates hot,dry soils.
Western sandcherry 5-6'w rounded
Rhus aromatics 5-6'h rounded to 4-9 red to orange yellow O Excellent massing ground cover.Separate male and
'Gro-Low' 5-6'w upright female plants.
Fragrant sumac
Salix discolor 10-20'h upright 4-8 __ silvery O a Catkins can be used in flower arrangements.
Pussy willow 10-15'w fuzzy
Symphoricarpos albus 5-6'h broad 3-7 __ pink O a White berries are interesting. Good plant for
Snowberry 3-6'w rounded creating wildlife habitat.
Symphoricarpos 2-5'h spreading, 4-7 __ yellow- Oa Good ground cover for steep banks.Very soil
orbiculatus 4-8'w arching white adaptable.
Coralberry
Check with the local extension service, Department of Natural Resources or Department of Agriculture for
specific species recommendations for your area.
14
�� �
������ Information on ��Buckthorn
WEBSITES MERCHANDISE
VVi|d|and Invasive Species Program — "Buckthorn Busters" T'Shirts. Buttons, Signs,
|nvasivesonthe Web Display Materials
Nature Conservancy University of Minnesota Extension Service,
h11p://1nomeeds.ucdavisedu/index.h1m| Olmsted County
The Truth about Exotic Species 1421 Third Avenue lE
Ro:he�er, MN 55904-7947
A��nem/oDepartment ofNu�oe/Resomces '
Phone: 507-285-8250
www.drir.state.mri.us/fish—arid—wildlife/exotics/iridex.htmi �
— o|msted9extensionumnedu
European (Common) Buckthorn
Minnesota Department nfNatural Resources AGENCIES
www.drir.state.mri.us/fish—arid—wildlife/exotics/buck.htmi— Invasive Species Program
Yard and Garden Brief—Common Buckthorn Minnesota Department ofAgriculture
Identification DOWest Plato Boulevard
University ofMinnesota Extension Services Saint Paul, MNSSlO7'2OD4
wwwex1ension.umnedu/pr0ects/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/ Phone: GSl'2DG'8448' GSl'2DG'OSD2
h402bucNhorn'common.h1m| wwwmdas1a1emn.us/invasives/defau|1.h1m
P|antData8ase Harmful Exotic Species Program
USDA' Natural Resources Conservation Service Minnesota Department ofNatural Resources
h11p://p|an1susda.gov/cgi_bin/1opicszgi SOO Lafayette Rd' Box 25
Saint Paul, MN 55155-4025
8ucNhornInformation Page '
Phone: GSl'2D7'l4G4
�g» ���0yD/w�� �
�� wwwdnrs1a1emnus/eco|ogica| services/exodcs/index
���zi1yofeaganzom/Fores1ry/buck1hnrn�h1m � � � � — .h1m|
CityofSaintPau| Division ofParksand Recreation
The 8ucNhornProblem by '
^ 3OOCi\yHaUAnnex
Research by Planning' ' ' ~ ' 25 W. Fourth Street
Revitalization, Minneapolis �
lain�Pau| K�NSSlO2
wwwopo»pg/epor�/npo113G/npo113G.h1m| '
651'266'6400
The Trouble with Backyard Buckthorn by John Moriarty TTY: 651-266-6378
/nthe Minnesota Conservation Volunteer,published br wwwzisain1'pau|.mnus/dep1s/parks
Minnesota Department ofNatural Resources
wwwdnrs1a1emn.us/infnrmadnn and educadon/ Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
— — Environmental Operations
pub|icadons/vo|un1eer/ardc|es/bucNhnrn.h1m|
3800 Bryant Avenue South
PRINTED MATERIALS Minneapolis, MNSS4OD'lO2D
Phone: 612-370-4900
Northern Gardener: Creating and Caring for Your wwwminneapn|isparks»rg
Environment, April 2UU2 (available/nbulk on��
~' Friends ofthe Parks and Trails ofSaint Paul
Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association
PO8OXl3O3O7 and Ramsey County
1621 Beechwood
Saint Paul, K�NSSll3 Ave.
laintPau| K�NSSllG
Phone: 651'633'4987 '
Phone: 651-698-4543 Fax: 651-698-8761
Wisconsin Manual of Control Recommendations for
Ecologically Invasive Plants Call behoreyoudig! GOPHER STATE ONE CALL
Bureau nfEndangered Resources, Wisconsin DNR Metro Area Phone: 651'454'0002
POBOX 7D2l MNToll Free Phone: l'8OO'2S2'llGG
Madison,WI 53707'7921
Phone: 608'267'5066
15
Aloio
OTHER SUPPORT PROVIDED BY:
Down to Earth Graphics
Mark Mueller
3911 Greencastle Ave.
Oxford, Iowa 52322
Friends of the St. Paul and Ramsey County Parks and Trails
Great River Greening
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Minnesota Society of Arboriculture
People for Parks
Ramsey County Parks and Recreation
Saint Paul and Minneapolis Neighborhood Associations
Saint Paul City Council
University of Minnesota
Extension Service, Hennepin County Master Gardeners
Horticultural Science Department
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources