About the dangers of goldenrod and the impending fines for using it in landscaping

The Novopolotsk City and District Inspectorate of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection once again reminds of the dangers of goldenrod and the impending fines for its use in landscaping.

The yellow panicles of this tall grass are familiar to everyone. Someone saw thickets in the wasteland, someone was planted behind the fence by neighbors as an ornamental autumn flower. Summer residents even gave the goldenrod a name - "Belarusian mimosa". True, this weed has only color in common with a delicate flower. Goldenrod is native to North America. Its uncontrolled spread leads to oppression and complete displacement of ecosystems of other plants. Local flora and fauna are changing. Goldenrod very quickly captures territories. It has no natural enemies among plants, animals and insects. Each bush produces up to one hundred thousand seeds, which are distinguished by high germination. Over the years, the rhizomes begin to release poisonous substances into the soil that inhibit the growth of other plants.

To preserve biological diversity, the Ministry of Natural Resources has banned the spread of ash-leaved maple, false acacia robinia, Sosnowsky's hogweed, Mantegazzi's hogweed, Canadian goldenrod, giant goldenrod, common hemp, soporific poppy, and Echinocystis loba.

People themselves help the spread of goldenrod: they decorate front gardens with an unpretentious plant, plant them in cemeteries. Hidden advertising also contributes to this. A well-known Belarusian clothing brand, presenting its new autumn collection, gave the models goldenrod branches. And florists were inserting yellow brushes into festive bouquets for September 1.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection reminds of the inadmissibility of the use of invasive plants in landscaping and promises to fine for their distribution. For non-fulfillment, improper or untimely fulfillment of the requirements for the destruction of goldenrod issued by the bodies of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Executive Committees, administrative liability is provided under Article 24.1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses with the imposition of a fine of up to 20 basic units.

How to destroy?

If goldenrod does not spread very widely on the site, a mechanical method is suitable - repeated mowing during the season of even small shoots up to 15 - 20 centimeters. In large areas, it is better to use herbicides or a combined method. If goldenrod grows in a flower bed, then every year, as soon as the panicle begins to darken (which means that seeds will soon appear in place of the flowers), it should be cut off and be sure to dispose of it in compost pits (at a depth of 40 cm). The rhizome also needs to be removed, dried, thrown away or burned.