About the Strategy
To combat the growth of this plant successfully we have put together the 'Bury Community Himalayan Balsam Control Strategy', by following this plan you can help stop the spread:
- Wear gardening gloves: As a safety precaution it is always recommended that you wear suitable gear that you don’t mind getting mucky
- Uproot: Once you have identified the balsam, grab the stem from its lowest point, giving it a sturdy tug to uproot the whole plant
- Break or damage the root: Using your hands or foot, snap the root off the plant just above its lowest ‘nobble’ point. Doing this will ensure it doesn’t re-root itself
- Pile Up: With each plant you pull up, start to build a compost pile so that the process of natural degradation can begin. If you are near a public footpath make sure that the pile isn’t blocking access for passers-by
- Repeat and revisit: It’s always good to revisit sites to make sure there is no re-growth
Please note: Do not pull it once it has seed heads as this will help to spread the seed.
Identifying Himalayan Balsam
Before it flowers
Himalayan Balsam has broad, almost square seed leaves initially, followed by lance-shaped true leaves with finely serrated edges.
Once it's flowered
Himalayan Balsam has large, pink flowers shaped like a bonnet; these are followed by hanging, green seed pods.