w. Mowing curtails seed development, but some plants have been observed to re-flower and produce seed after mowing. Mowed materials dry quickly, and mowing should be conducted before pods are fully mature. As a precaution, any hand-pulled plants should be properly removed, bagged and disposed until more data is available about whether seed pods can ripen after plants are mowed or pulled.
Dame’s rocket is not a protected native wildflower, but, in most locations, it is not classified as a noxious weed. Due to its widespread encroachment on native landscapes and species, it is imperative to educate the public about the risks of Dame’s rocket and encourage states to list the plant as an invasive species. Further actions must also be taken to develop plans addressing containment and removal of Dame’s rocket. Any plan must also be mindful of desirable native plant species and habitat conditions in a targeted location that may be vulnerable to herbicide uses and mowing.
Remember, as beautiful as Dame’s rocket may appear, it is an invasive species with the potential to damage entire natural ecosystems. Take action now to defend your environment. For information about various treatment strategies, please contact your state’s Department of Natural Resources.
Steven Apfelbaum was one of the first US ecologists to raise concerns over reed canary grass (Phalaris arunidinacea), which has since become the ecological and economic threat Apfelbaum predicted. He continues to monitor and raise awareness of ecological threats posed by invasive, non-native species. Apfelbaum is the author of Nature’s Second Chance and co-author of the Restoring Ecological Health to Your Land series. For more information, visit www.appliedeco.com.
Dame's rocket threatens landscapes, and why we should care
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