Invasive Species Removal

It may not seem like it, but invasive species are all around. You may have even added some to your landscape or yard without noticing! It is important to identify these species and begin removal to ensure that they do not overtake native species that support wildlife. 

You can find a list of Kentucky’s invasive species here. If you have trouble identifying species, try an app like iNaturalist to help! Remember to always do your research and stay patient during this process. 

Here are some environmentally friendly methods to try: 

  1. Hand Pulling: This is best and easiest to do when the ground is soft and wet to avoid soil erosion. Oftentimes, invasive species will have to be hand-pulled multiple times before disappearing. 
  2. Cutting: For annual or biennial plants, cutting while blooming, but before going to seed, can be an effective method of control. Repeated cutting can also be an effective method of control for some perennial species.  
  3. Smothering: This can be accomplished by cutting down the invasive species, covering it with a layer of cardboard, and then covering it again with a thick layer of mulch.
    • This process may need to be repeated several times for success. 
  4. Solarization: This process involves removing visible plant matter, ensuring the soil has moisture, and covering it with a plastic tarp. The tarp should be weighed down on all sides to trap heat and moisture.
    • After a few weeks, unwanted plants should be gone and your soil will be enriched with lots of new nutrients! 
  5. Controlled Herbicide Use: This method should ONLY be used if other others are ineffective. Be sure to thoroughly research products, safety risks, and weather conditions for this process.
    • Try to ensure that the herbicide is ONLY affecting invasive species and is not harming native species. 

More Invasive Species Resources:

Online:

Local: 

  • Marion County
    • Natural Resources Conservation Service (Lebanon) - (270) 692-2431
    • Marion County Conservation District - (270) 692 3341
  • Washington County
    • Washington County Conservation District - (859) 336-7777
    • Farm Service Agency - (859) 336-7774
  • Nelson County
    • Natural Resources Conservation Service (Bardstown) - (502) 348-3363
    • Nelson County Conservation District - (502) 348-3363

Thanks to our generous partners!

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Subscribe

* indicates required
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram