Removing Non-native Species

Native species can help to inspire plant growth within a region; they are resilient and resistant to local environmental changes, and they bring native pollinators back to environments which may have lost them over time. Within the pollinator garden project, my focus will be on the removal of non-native species from the Patch house to create room for native species. Throughout the course of the project, I will work to identify the species to figure out safe modes of disposal and the impact of each species on the local ecosystem. Whether these species are recognized as invasive or native, their relationship with pollinators could impact the success of the garden. These species need to be disposed of properly so they do not continue to impact the garden or grow into the beds created. 

Success in removing invasive species typically relies on the use of herbicides, however they may also negatively impact the native species being planted. If herbicides are widely used, they can kill surrounding species, greatly impacting the local wildlife that feeds on those plants (Pesticide Impact on Wildlife Ecology). One of the species impacting the garden site at Patch is English Ivy. English Ivy removal includes slicing the stem and applying herbicides to the newly exposed surface. The ivy must also be uprooted and the stems need to be removed from the places it has attached itself to. Since our class has opted to avoid using herbicides, our removal is focused on uprooting the plants so they do not grow back. So far, this has proven to be rather challenging, although the safety of the overall ecosystem makes the decision worthwhile. 

English Ivy has invaded countless gardens across the region, so in documenting our removal we hope to educate the public on safe ways to clean their own gardens. This project is centered specifically on Central Massachusetts species and ecosystems to ensure the information presented is applicable throughout this region.