Prioritizing Removal of Buckthorn

The highest priority is to remove all buckthorn plants with berries. Female buckthorn plants produce berries when they reach maturity.The berries contain seeds which will remain viable in the soil for 5 to 7 years. Removing female plants stops future seed production.

Remove the buckthorn surrounding native plants and trees. Native trees, shrubs and forbs are important for restoring woodland habitat. Removing the buckthorn surrounding your natives will lead to restoration of  your site.

Remove the largest buckthorn plants, which shade out native plants. Buckthorn may be cut close to the ground and chemically treated immediately.

Remove buckthorn seedlings as they emerge.  Buckthorn eradication takes time and effort but it is worth it.

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