YUP…MORE ON PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE!

We’ve been trying valiantly for two years to awaken people to the dangers of the invasive plant, Purple Loosestrife, that grows abundantly on the shores of Tripp Lake. It replaces native vegetation beneficial to the lake and to lake "critters" and should be removed, carefully. Methods of eradication are removal and spraying.

When removing the plant, the flowering tops must be cut into a plastic bag so seeds don’t fall, then the stem removed if it can be removed easily. MDOT works with this plant in wetland mitigation sites, and their limited research points to the fact that pulling the plant up from dry soil breaks apart the roots. Multiple plants sprout up from the root pieces, thus potentially increasing the population. If growing in water or in a wet site, it can be carefully pulled up trying to get all the root system.

Spraying is another matter. Flowers must removed first, then stalks difficult to remove(on high or dry ground) should be cut down as far as possible and sprayed with Roundup or Rodeo. Or using a bucket and plastic gloves, the herbicide can be diluted in water and manually applied to remaining stalks. Herbicides, such as Rodeo, must be applied by a licensed pesticide applicator in aquatic areas. It’s necessary to first apply for a permit from DEP for any aquatic area. Herbicides have been successfully used at Acadia National Park after bagging/incinerating flower and seed parts.

Removing plants for several growing seasons could result in reducing the actual number of plants. The theory behind this is that they will eventually die from never having growth above ground to photosynthesize and produce carbohydrates. A willing work force can remove the flower stalks at regular intervals throughout the summer. Purple Loosestrife flowers for 10-12 weeks. Some estimates state that a single flower stalk can produce up to 1-11/2 million seed. So removal of flower parts goes a long way to stopping the spread of the plant. The plant has an easily recognizable four-sided stem and can grow to heights of 7 ft. The flowers are purple-pink; many folks are reluctant to remove them because they’re pretty. But they are invasive and necessary to remove.

So, please, this summer make every attempt possible to remove this plant from your property as well as your neighbor’s. It’s hard work, but we can do it!