HIMALAYAN BALSAM MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL – (IMPATIENS GLANDULIFERA)
HIMALAYAN BALSAM – THE PROBLEM
Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is recognised by the Environment Agency within their published hit list of “top ten invasive species marked for containment and removal". The plant has adapted successfully to UK conditions and now out-competes many native British plants, colonising whole watercourses. The plants leave watercourses vulnerable to erosion when river levels rise in winter, increasing incidences of flooding. Plants will also colonise urban areas, dominating garden lawns and causing costly delays to development sites.
HIMALAYAN BALSAM – INFORMATION AND IDENTIFICATION
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Himalayan Balsam is reputed to be the tallest annual plant in the United Kingdom and spreads rapidly due to its exceptional seed distribution system; it has explosive seed-capsules that propel seeds up to 7m. Plants can to grow up to three metres in height in three months. The plants were introduced from India in 1839 by John Forbes Royle; plants were intended to be ornamental.
HIMALAYAN BALSAM – THE LAW
Although listed by the Environment Agency as an invasive species, there are no specific laws, but adjoining owners could take civil action seeking damages due to excessive spread of plants onto their land.
HIMALAYAN BALSAM – THE SOLUTION
Herpetosure Invasive Solutions has a range of tried and trusted cost-effective environmentally aware solutions, to fit client’s timescales, budgets, and site specific requirements, as well as meeting all regulations.