It’s that time of year again when plants begin to sprout. Unfortunately, it is also the time when one of Ontario’s most aggressive forest invaders also rears its head – Garlic Mustard.
Since its introduction from Europe, garlic mustard has spread throughout Ontario, parts of Quebec, and established populations in western and Atlantic Canada and is threatening Canada’s forest biodiversity.
Garlic mustard grows in a wide range of habitats and spreads quickly along roadsides, trails, and fence lines. Seeds fall close to the parent plants and are rarely dispersed by wind or water. The main pathway for seed spread over long distances is through humans and pets.
Think it’s a ‘pretty’ plant? Think again. Within 5-7 years, garlic mustard can enter, establish itself, and become the dominant plant in the forest understory. This is achieved by its dispersing chemicals within the soil that prevent the growth of other plants and grasses.
The second-year plants grow up to 1 meter tall and have 4 small white four-petaled flowers. We see them as low green rosettes right now and will see the flowering plant in a few weeks, before it develops seed pods. We want to pull these plants now before they develop their seeds. Hand pulling is an easy and effective way to help control the spread. Grasping the plant at the base and pull out the entire root to prevent re-sprouting. Dispose in the garbage using a black plastic bag or yard waste bag. Let the bags sit in the sun for 1-2 weeks before taking to the landfill. Never compost!
Several Southampton and Port Elgin residents have found the dreaded plant in many locations. It’s almost everywhere in Saugeen Shores-along trails, parks, alleyways and maybe even in your own backyard!
In Saugeen Shores, there is a Facebook page,”Garlic Mustard Challenge Saugeen Shores” and a Messenger chat group called “Saugeen Shores Invasive Volunteers”. Please follow for up-to-date information.
If you have never been to a ‘garlic mustard pull’, now is your chance. “We are having our first pull on Monday, May 4 from 1-3 p.m. at Beiners bush trail, Parkwood drive access at the west end of Picadilly Dr.,” says Michele Hunter. “We will be pulling every Monday in May in Beiners bush and will have some signs to help you find your way. Rain dates will be posted on social media platforms.”
Gloves, long pants and shirts are recommended, bucket and garden trowel, perhaps a kneeling pad – and maybe bug spray as well! The town provides the garbage bags.
Everyone is invited to help fight this invasive weed. Come as long as you are able. Feel free to pull on your own if you are unable to make the organized pulls. It would also be an opportunity for teens to earn some volunteer hours, or those just looking to get some fresh air and fellowship.
If you see garlic mustard on your travels, don’t hesitate to pull and bake in the sun in a black garbage bag … our forests need the help!
