Regulating tumbleweeds: An exploration into the techniques for curbing Russian Thistle infestations
The Russian thistle, scientifically known as Salsola tragus syn. Kali tragus, is a troublesome annual forb that has become a significant problem in the American West. This bushy weed can grow up to three feet tall and is infamous for its tumbling habit, earning it the common name of tumbleweed.
Originating from Russia, the Russian thistle was likely brought to the United States by Russian immigrants, hidden within contaminated flaxseed. Thriving on disturbed, burned-out sites, this invasive species has spread rapidly across open lands.
One Russian thistle plant can produce an astonishing 250,000 seeds, making its control a challenging task. Mature weeds break off at ground level and tumble across open lands, spreading seeds as they go. This rapid growth and seed dispersal make managing Russian thistle a complex issue.
Teo Spengler, a master gardener and docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden, has dedicated over two decades to studying horticulture. With experience gardening in a range of climates, having been raised in Alaska and currently splitting her life between San Francisco and the French Basque Country, Spengler offers valuable insights into managing Russian thistle.
Spengler hosts public tours and shares her knowledge, advocating for strategies such as avoiding soil disturbance to prevent the spread of Russian thistle seeds. She also recommends heavy mulching, as it can deprive the seeds of sunlight and prevent them from germinating.
Replanting infested areas with other plants, such as grasses, can also prevent the establishment of Russian thistle. Mowing Russian thistle plants very early before they can bloom and produce seed can help in management, but hand-pulling is more effective. Manual control of Russian thistle can be achieved by pulling young plants up by their roots before they seed.
However, burning is not an effective method for controlling Russian thistle. In fact, it can contribute to the spread of seeds due to the tumbling action of the mature plants.
Russian thistle is not just a nuisance for gardeners; it poses a serious threat to livestock. Accumulating toxic levels of nitrates, it can kill cattle and sheep in the American West.
While the search results do not provide the name of the person who investigated the control of tumbleweeds in the USA and wrote for more than two decades about nature, trees, plants, and horticulture, the fight against Russian thistle continues. With the guidance of experts like Teo Spengler, there is hope for a future where this invasive species is effectively managed.
Caroline Bloomfield, the Manager of Marketing Communications, emphasises the importance of spreading awareness about the Russian thistle and the strategies for its management. By working together, we can help protect our lands and livestock from this invasive species.
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