We wanted to inform the community that there is a tree problem at Beverly Park. It's where the trees are getting covered in a shrub called buckthorn, and eventually it can kill trees if they become infected. Buckthorn is an invasive species from Europe and it wasn't supposed to be here in the first place. There are 27 types of buckthorn, so it is a big threat to trees. It is a concern that buckthorn can kill trees because trees make Oxygen and trees are also homes to many animals. Buckthorn threatens the future of how trees thrive at Beverly Park.
Here are some ways that you can take care of trees by removing buckthorn. First, remove buckthorn from trees that provide fruit, such as apple trees, so that berries from the shrub are not confused with the fruit from the tree. If you have areas with relatively little buckthorn invasion, start your management there and keep the nice areas nice. Then work towards the areas that are more heavily infested. Continue to follow-up in the areas where you have previously removed buckthorn.
We interviewed Mr.Dan Badgley with Johnson Nature Center and here is what he said…
“Buckthorn effects trees by not allowing new trees to grow. It shades the ground so much, new seedlings can't get started. Buckthorn also changes the soil so new trees won't grow. It also absorbs SO much water, trees have a hard time growing.” When asked if buckthorn can cause trees to turn bright orange he said, “I have never heard of buckthorn causing trees to turn orange. That could be caused by road salt killing the trees, or a chemical used to kill other plants that somehow was accidentally sprayed on the trees.”
Many people are concerned that buckthorn can be harmful to people. Mr. Badgley was asked to address this concern and he said, “Buckthorn is not poisonous but it has sharp thorns that can cut you. The berries should also not be eaten as they are laxatives (causing an upset stomach).”
Buckthorn
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