Buckthorn

This highly invasive species, originally from Eurasia, can be found in the region. You certainly have some in your backyard without being aware. Buckthorn grows along and through your trees and bushes. We are inviting you to actively participate in the elimination of buckthorn in order to preserve our unique tree environment.

This year, the Association purchased two Pullerbears to contribute to the effort in eradicating buckthorn in our neighborhood: parcchamplainpark.ca/arrache-broussailles-pullerbear/

The steps to be taken are as follows:

1) Identify these bush plants on your lot, preferably before the seeds have reached a mature state towards the beginning of August and start to be dispersed by birds.

2) Pull out these bush plants, including the root system, for stems of up to 6 cm in diameter, to avoid regrowth (with the Pullerbear).

3) For bigger stems, cut them close to the ground and cover the stump with a thick dark plastic that needs to be strongly held down to avoid regrowth that can happen up to 5 years after the cut.

4) Get rid of the entire bush: a) residues of 2.5 cm and less that does not bear seeds can go for composting ; b) bigger stem sections with larger diameter than 2.5 cm as well as sections of branches that bear seeds (small green or black balls) must go to the trash to avoid contaminating the compost.

For any further question, advice or help regarding the identification and removal of buckthorn, please contact the Association.

Moreover, in collaboration with the City, we are looking forward to a possible buckthorn removal chore.