06/28/2023
We spent half of yesterday pulling Creeping Bellflower in a client's yard. If you live in a mature Edmonton neighborhood, chances are you have encountered this invasive plant.
Why is it so invasive?
-It's deceivingly pretty and people often overlook it as a "w**d."
-It spreads rapidly through prolific seed production.
-Its root system is complex and aggressive, consisting of rhizomes connected to taproots. The taproots are usually found 6-12" below ground. When pulling the plant, the rhizomes easily break free, giving rise to new growth. Each broken piece of rhizome has enough energy to start a brand new plant.
How to tackle it?
While complete removal is challenging, frequent management can prevent its spread and even lead to its elimination. Our preferred approach is the "death by a thousand cuts" method. We remove as much of the root system as possible and regularly pluck any emerging leaves. Additionally, planting a dense garden helps shade out the emerging leaves, further depleting the plant's energy stores. If this approach isn't feasible for you, ensure you remove any flower stalks to prevent it from spreading through seeds.
Managing Creeping Bellflower requires persistence, but it's worth it to maintain a healthy and thriving garden. Let's work together to keep our landscapes free from invasive species!
We would also love to hear about other methods you've found effective in dealing with Creeping Bellflower. Share your experiences in the comments below!
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