WIGL
Woody Invasives of the Great Lakes Collaborative
Native to Europe, common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is often referred to as European buckthorn. With allelopathic qualities, aggressive reproduction, and prolific growth, buckthorn can quickly outcompete native forest understory and create dense, even-aged stands. Their berries, consumed by many bird species, provide little nutrients, and are quickly excreted, contributing to further spread. With its invasive […]
Invasive shrubs threaten natural areas in the Midwest and Great Lakes region, out-competing native plants, reducing biodiversity and habitat, and altering ecosystem functions. Some of these woody invaders, including common buckthorn and bush honeysuckle, increase the risk for the spread of human pathogens, by fostering habitat for ticks and other disease vectors. The bottom line […]
Pears on the Loose! For many people, the flowering of pear trees in our front yards and along the highways signals the beginning of Spring. In years past, these trees (known as the Callery pear, Pyrus calleryana) burst into bloom in the first few weeks of March. This display is shortly followed by the buzzing […]
The following is a list of citations, links and abstracts of peer reviewed studies on woody invasive species of concern in the Great Lakes Region and their management, published between July 1 and December 31, 2021. You may be able to receive a personal-use copy of any copyrighted article by contacting the primary author. Subscribe […]
Did you know that the U.S. has a national tree? I actually didn’t before I started researching for this post, and unlike Canada, we don’t make it super-obvious by putting it on our national flag! Back in 2004, following a public poll by The Arbor Day Foundation, Congress passed legislation establishing “the mighty oak” (all […]
