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Buckthorn Control and Management
Healing Our Woodlands
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Two decades ago buckthorn control was not even on the standard list of management practices for PRI. Unfortunately and necessarily, it has risen to the top in the past 10 years.  Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) is an exotic species invading woodlands, savannas and prairies. Its aggressive nature crowds out and all but eliminates desirable native species. Originally introduced from Europe as an ornamental hedge shrub, buckthorn leafs out early in the spring and retains its leaves late into the fall, creating a dense canopy that is inhospitable for many native plants. The purple berries contain seed that is eaten by many birds. Unfortunately, the seed retains viability after being consumed, digested and eliminated, therefore easily spread far and wide.
Buckthorn is now considered a true threat to woodlands and other native habitats and has been placed on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s list of Restricted Noxious Weeds. Fortunately there is a growing awareness and understanding on the part of both the public and private sectors about the destructive nature of this invasive species and the importance of controlling it. For more than 10 years PRI has had a program of successful removal and control of buckthorn for homeowners, businesses and municipalities, employing environmentally friendly management practices that have minimum negative impact on surrounding native plants. Winter months, without significant snowfall, are often the best time for implementing buckthorn control measures.
Before Buckthorn Removal After Buckthorn Removal
Want to take control of a buckthorn infestation? Call PRI to schedule a free inspection and estimate.
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Interested in creating a native landscape on your property? Learn more about the process and how PRI can help...
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Wondering what an actual native landscape looks like? Check out our Project Portfolio for great examples of projects from a variety of habitat types...
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