Japanese Knotweed is a bamboo-like invader from Asia that can create dense 8’ tall single-species stands. It is a tough adversary, not because it’s spiny or strong or even particularly hard to pull. But any small root fragments left behind spring back to life the following year. A recently approved biological control is expected to somewhat limit the growth but will not eliminate it. For now we will continue with controlling it manually. Persistence pays with this species, and eradication is possible, but it takes several years to truly finish the job we’ve started along Hammond Pond. Bring pitchforks, garden spades, and hand pruners, if you have them, and wear long sleeves, long pants and closed shoes.
Leaders are Mark Hooker and Katherine Howard, 617-721-2571.
