Following on from our recent efforts to clear the highly invasive Himalayan Balsam from Berrylands Nature Reserve we are setting our sights further a field (not very far) to try to help improve the situation in nearby Elmbridge Meadows where Himalayan Balsam is rife.
Despite working in Elmbridge Meadows we will still be meeting outside Berrylands Scouts Hut on Sterling Walk, as usual, for an intro briefing, before heading off on a short walk to where we will be working.
Himalayan Balsam
As it’s name suggests it is natively found in the Himalayas and it therefore tolerant of low light levels, grows extremely quickly, and doesn’t have a significant root system. It therefore easily out competes native species which hold the banks together.
Each plant produces approximately 800 seeds, and can project them upto 7m, so if left to it’s own devices it can spread and take over areas extremely quickly.
To make matters worse it is also easily spread to new sites through seeds getting into rivers and streams.
The one saving grace is that it is really easy to pull up, and very satisfying!
As usual biscuits, warm drinks and any necessary tools will be provided.
Given that the balsam likes to grow around nettles we would suggest wearing long sleeves so you don’t get stung. We will provide gloves, but you are welcome to bring your own instead if you prefer.
Unlike when we were tackling it in the Nature Reserve last month we aren’t planning to be in the river to tackle it this time, so wellies are waders aren’t required.
If you have any questions about the session, or volunteering with the friends group in general then please drop us an email to: berrylandsnr@gmail.com
Hope you can join us.
