Removing non-native species to protect local pollinators

2022

Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is an invasive plant native to Asia. Local concern: Himalayan balsam competes heavily with native species and alters the behaviour and composition of pollinating insects. Additionally, this species can alter water flow at high densities which increases the risk of erosion and flooding.

We have three sites in which it has grown. Over the past three years, we have been trying to eradicate it by manual methods of digging up the roots and cutting off the flower heads before they go to seed.