The end for spring plants seems to be here. Everything is flowering, and will soon set seed. All plants seem to be around 2-3 weeks early due to a warmer than usual spring.
As a prairie manager I'm worried about specific invasive plants on site such as Reed Canary Grass, Pastinaca, and soon Birdsfoot trefoil.
Below is an example of similar flowers between the native golden alexander, and the invasive pastinaca. Look at the last photo and see how aggressive pastinaca can be!!
Golden Alexander
Pastinaca sativa
A large patch of Pastinaca
Taking control of cool season grasses such as fescue and brome are important as well right now. Although not considered invasive, they are still aggressive, and have the ability to choke out the native plants trying to become established. Mowing at a height of 6-8 inches is a technique used on a 2nd year prairie. This avoids clipping the natives, and takes out the higher grasses. Give the natives a chance, and let them breath!!
Monarch with nothing else but this red clover around....
Moved in to a new place a month ago, and still don't have internet. Not sure how much longer I can go, but it certainly affects my blogging! I have plenty of pics to put up. I'll have to find time after work to use the internet connection out there.
Stay tuned!!
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