It can develop impenetrable stands of shrubs, outcompeting seedling trees and native vegetation, and blocking wildlife corridors. It is a breathing hazard, a potential fire hazard, and all parts of the plant are poisonous if eaten.
Each mature shrub can cast as many as 10,000 seeds; seeds can remain viable in the soil for up to 80 years.
Whenever possible, people should remove Scotch broom wherever found following these best practices:
- Small seedlings – green stems that are thinner than a finger - should be pulled from the ground by hand (loosening the soil around roots if needed) or with a weed wrench.
- Shrubs with woody stems somewhat thicker than a finger should be cut within 2 inches of the ground with a lopper, saw or blade-whacker. 50-80% of larger shrubs won’t re-grow. Pulling very large shrubs will disturb seeds in the soil initiating new seedlings,
- Lime and some herbicides can be applied to the stumps and soil where plants are cut or pulled to reduce the chances of seedlings sprouting with minimum adverse environmental impact.
When is the best time to remove them? Now.
Jack Hartt is park manager of Deception State Park.