What are the methods for controlling invasive plants once they become established?
When prevention fails and we are faced with the need to control an infestation, the challenge is to determine which control method is most effective, while being the least damaging to the ecosystem. Often the best approach to controlling invasive plants is to use an integrated approach that includes a combination of control options. The types of control options available include: Biological Control- The introduction, encouragement, and artificial release of insects and pathogens to deter and/or control the growth and reproduction of invasive plants. Cultural Control- The establishment or maintenance of competitive vegetation, use of fertilizing, mulching, fire, or grazing animals to control or eliminate invasive plants. Manual Control- The use of any non-mechanized approach to control or eliminate invasive plants (i.e. hand-pulling, grubbing). Mechanical Control- The use of any mechanized approach to control or eliminate invasive plants (i.e. mowing, weed whipping, disking, and burning
