Plant and Weed Removal Services
Invasive plant and weed species are a growing problem (over 285 invasive species!) in Pennsylvania, causing significant damage to the state’s natural resources. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) estimates that invasive species cost the state more than $17 million each year in lost timber value, crop damage, and control costs.
Recent invasions of non-native plants like Multiflora Rose, Japanese Knotweed, English Ivy, Oriental Bittersweet, along with many others, continue to go unnoticed. Sometimes called alien, exotic, or noxious weeds, an invasive species, non-native plants occur as trees, shrubs, and vines. Without natural predators, noxious weeds continue to increase across the landscape with ease. With all the proper tools, training, knowledge, and proven success rate regarding eradication, our invasive plant removal service at Shades of Green, Inc. can reclaim your property or wooded areas and restore them back to the beautiful, natural state in which they were intended to be. When it comes to looking for invasive species removal companies, look no further than Shades of Green.
Common Invasive Plant Species Found in Bucks County Pennsylvania
Wineberry, garlic mustard, narrowleaf bittercress, and Japanese honeysuckle are just a few of the many invasive plant species that can be found in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. These plants are often introduced to new areas by humans, and they can quickly spread and crowd out native plants. Invasive species can cause problems for both the environment and the economy. They can alter ecosystems, reduce crop yields, and spread diseases. In Pennsylvania, wineberry is considered one of the most troublesome invasive species due to its rapid growth and ability to displace native plants. wineberry is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has glossy red berries and light green leaves. wineberry can be found in both forested and open areas. It often invades streambanks, field edges, and roadsides. If you suspect that you have found wineberry on your property, it is important to take action to remove it before it spreads.
Top 10 Invasive Plant Species Found in Bucks County
- Wineberry – Wineberry is an invasive plant species that is native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the late 1800s, and it has since spread to many parts of the United States. Wineberry is a member of the Rubus genus, which includes other well-known plants such as blackberries and raspberries. Like its relatives, wineberry has thorny stems and bears edible fruit. However, wineberry is much more aggressive than other members of its genus, and it can quickly take over an area if left unchecked. The plant’s rapid growth and strong roots make it difficult to control, and it can crowd out native vegetation. Wineberry is also poisonous to animals, and its thorns can pose a danger to humans. For these reasons, wineberry is considered to be a serious pest in many parts of the world.
Wineberry
- Oriental Bittersweet – Oriental bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) is a fast-growing deciduous vine that is native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the early 1800s as an ornamental plant, and it has since become naturalized in many parts of the eastern United States. Oriental bittersweet is a twining vine that can reach up to 30 feet in length. It has alternating, glossy green leaves that are 2-3 inches long, and small, yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the summertime. The vine produces fruits that resemble berries, and each fruit contains 3 seeds. These seeds are dispersed by birds, who eat the fruits and then defecate the seeds in other areas. As a result, Oriental bittersweet can spread rapidly in woodland ecosystems, where it can smother native plants and negatively impact wildlife habitat. Although it is still widely planted as an ornamental, Oriental bittersweet is considered to be an invasive species in many parts of the United States.
Oriental Bittersweet
- Narrowleaf Bittercress – Narrowleaf bittercress (Cardamine impatiens) is a fast-growing, annual weed in the mustard family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has naturalized throughout North America. This weed is easily identified by its small, white flowers and slender, dark green leaves. Narrowleaf bittercress typically germinates in early spring, and will flower and set seed throughout the growing season. It reproduces exclusively by seed, and each plant can produce up to 1000 seeds per season. Although narrowleaf bittercress is not known to be toxic to humans or animals, it can be a nuisance in gardens and lawns. When left unchecked, it can quickly crowd out other plants. Hand-pulling is the best method of control for small infestations. Larger infestations may require herbicide treatment.
Narrowleaf Bittercress
- Multiflora Rose -The multiflora rose is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of climates. Native to Asia, the multiflora rose was introduced to North America in the early 1800s. Since then, it has become a common sight in suburban gardens and rural landscapes. The multiflora rose is a vigorous plant that can reach heights of 7 feet or more. It has dark green leaves and clusters of small white flowers. The flowers are followed by bright red berries. The berries are poisonous to humans but are popular with birds. The multiflora rose is considered an invasive species in many parts of North America. This is because it spreads rapidly, crowding out native plants. It is also difficult to control once it becomes established. However, the multiflora rose can be a valuable asset in the landscape if it is managed properly. When used as part of a hedgerow or border, it can help to control erosion and reduce noise pollution.
Multiflora Rose
- Lesser Celandine – The lesser celandine (Ficaria verna) is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that is native to Europe. It is a member of the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), and its small, yellow flowers resemble those of its close relative, the common buttercup (Ranunculus acris). The plant grows to a height of 10-15 cm, and its leaves are deeply divided into narrow leaflets. The lesser celandine typically blooms from March to May, and its flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects. The plant is found in woods, hedgerows, and meadows, and it thrives in moist, shady habitats. The lesser celandine is a popular garden plant, and it is also used in traditional herbal medicine.
Lesser Celandine
- Japanese Stiltgrass – Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is an annual grass that is native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the early 1900s, and it has since become naturalized in many parts of the United States. Japanese stiltgrass is a common invasive species, particularly in the eastern United States. It invades forests, fields, and other natural habitats, crowding out native plants. Japanese stiltgrass is a shade-tolerant plant, which gives it a competitive advantage over many native species. It also has the ability to produce large numbers of seeds, which helps it to spread quickly and colonize new areas. Japanese stiltgrass can be controlled through mechanical removal and herbicide application. However, once it becomes established in an area, it can be difficult to eradicate.
Japanese Stiltgrass
- Japanese Honeysuckle – Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) is a fast-growing vine that is native to Japan and China. It was introduced to the United States in 1806 as an ornamental plant, and it has since spread to nearly every state. Japanese honeysuckle can grow up to 30 feet in length, and it produces small white flowers that are highly fragrant. The vine is very versatile and can grow in a wide range of habitats, from forests to fields to suburban yards. Unfortunately, Japanese honeysuckle is also very invasive, as it can quickly crowd out native plants. It is especially dangerous to forest ecosystems, as it can climb trees and smother them. Japanese honeysuckle is difficult to control once it has become established, so it is important to take steps to prevent its spread.
Japanese Honeysuckle
- Garlic Mustard – Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) is an invasive plant that is threatening the biodiversity of forests in the eastern United States. Native to Europe, garlic mustard was introduced to North America in the early 1800s as a culinary herb. However, it soon escaped from gardens and began to spread rapidly through woodlands. Today, garlic mustard is found in more than 30 states and has become a serious problem for many native plants and animals. Garlic Mustard alters soil conditions, making it difficult for some native plants to reproduce. Moreover, garlic mustard provides little food value for native wildlife. As a result, this invasive plant is having a negative impact on the ecological balance of our forests.
Garlic Mustard
- Dame’s Rocket – Dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is a herbaceous perennial that is native to Europe and Asia. It has been introduced to North America, where it is now widely naturalized. Dame’s rocket grows to 1-2 m (3-6 ft) tall, with clusters of 4-12 violet or white flowers blooming in May and June. The leaves are lanceolate, and the plant has a strong fragrance. Dame’s rocket is often used as an ornamental plant, but it can be invasive in some areas. In fact, it is listed as a noxious weed in several US states. This plant self-seeds freely, and can quickly spread through a garden or field. Dame’s rocket can compete with native plants for resources, and it can also be poisonous to livestock. As a result, gardeners should exercise caution when growing this plant.
Dame’s Rocket
- Autumn Olive – The autumn olive is a small deciduous shrub that is native to Asia. It was introduced to North America in the early 1800s and has since become naturalized in many parts of the United States. Autumn olives are very adaptable and can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and roadside ditches. They are also tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions. Autumn olives are fast-growing and often form dense thickets. They produce small white flowers that blooms in late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by small red or black fruits that ripen in autumn. Birds often eat the fruits and spread the seeds in their droppings, which contributes to the plant’s rapid spread. Autumn olives can be invasive, crowding out native plants and altering ecosystem dynamics. However, they can also provide food and shelter for wildlife. Some people also enjoy eating the sweet-tart fruits raw or cooked into preserves.
Autumn Olive
If you’re concerned about the negative impact of invasive plant species on your property, consider hiring Shades of Green to remove those invasive weeds and plants for you. We have the experience and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively remove invasive plants and weeds without damaging your other vegetation. In addition, we can help you choose native plant species that are less likely to become invasive and help you implement measures to prevent future invasions. With our help, you can rest assured that your property is protected from the harmful effects of invasive plant species. Contact us by filling out the form below or give us a call today at 215-428-1323 to learn more about our invasive species eradication and weed removal services.
