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GRANT FINDER
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HIMALAYAN BALSAM
What is Himalayan Balsam
Introduced to the UK in 1839 from Northern India, Himalayan or
Indian Balsam is most commonly found on riverbanks and damp areas,
though it is capable of thriving in many other habitats.
Due to a lack of natural predators and diseases, once introduced,
this invasive plant spreads rapidly forming dense stands which can
grow up to 3 metres tall dominating the area. These stands shade out
our native plant species and in late autumn the plants die back
leaving the area bare of vegetation and liable to erosion.
Himalayan Balsam also causes a less obvious problem for native
species. Like many flowering plants, Himalayan Balsam produces a
sugary nectar to attract insects. However the flowers produce more
nectar than any other native European species making it more
attractive to bees and other insects, luring them away from
pollinating our native flowers.
How to identify Himalayan Balsam
This highly invasive and fast growing plant can attain 3 metres in
height exclude sunlight from the ground and killing any native
species growing below.
It is easily identifiable with its purplish-pinkish flowers in June
onwards and dark green jagged edged leaves growing on reddish stems.
From late July up to as late as November flowers develop into
explosive seed pods that can spread its 2500 seeds for at least 7
metres.
Eradicating Himalayan Balsam
Seeds only remain viable in the soil for 1 year. Therefore, if
effective control is carried out before seeding, complete
eradication can be achieved in one season.
Cutting is an effective control. Ensure all stems are completely
severed below the lowest node or joint.
Pulling is also a very effective control. However, as some seedlings
can mature as late as November, the site must be closely monitored
and any late emerging plants pulled.
Care must be taken to completely uproot each plant as plants with
broken or damaged stems, which are still rooted, are able to
continue growing and seeding. Cut or pulled plants can be safely
left on site to decompose, though this must be done in a dry open
area.
REMEMBER - Remove
every plant as JUST ONE PLANT CAN SEED AN AREA 7 METRES IN ALL
DIRECTIONS, THATS 154 SQUARE METRES!!!
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