November is the perfect time to eradicate Garlic Mustard, one of the worst invasive plants in our area. The green rosettes of garlic mustard are highly visible in the late fall and winter landscape, so you won’t have any trouble finding them. Just be sure to get the whole root or they’ll grow back.
If you’re in doubt about the identity of the plant, crush a leaf and take a sniff. Garlic mustard smells like—surprise--garlic.
Some of the many native wildflowers that grow in the same habitat as garlic mustard are spring beauty, wild ginger, bloodroot, Dutchman's breeches, hepatica, toothwort and trillium. These lovely Spring natives are being destroyed by garlic mustard, which aggressively monopolizes light, moisture, nutrients, soil and space.
Maybe you think you can live without Spring natives. But some wildlife species can’t, because they are dependent on Spring native plants as a food source of foliage, pollen, nectar, fruits, seeds and roots. That’s reason enough for me to rip up garlic mustard by its obnoxious roots. Hopefully, you agree. If you do, please join me in getting rid of this destructive invasive weed.
Do you have a gardening question? In Delaware County, call our Master Gardeners hortline at 610-690-2671 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 AM-12 NOON.
UPCOMING MASTER GARDENERS EVENTS
December 13, 2008
Wreath Making
Create a one-of-a-kind holiday wreath using fresh greens. Bring pruners and rubber gloves. All other materials will be provided. Sign up early--this is a very popular workshop. Cost: $15
The Garden Series at Haverford Township Adult School
A collection of one night classes for both the indoor and outdoor garden. Classes taught by Delaware County Master Gardeners. Take one, two or all five– and save.
For more information, go to Haverford Adult School or call 610-446-8022.
Registration required for all events. Please call 610-690-2655 for more information or visit our web site for a registration form.
