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| Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), an invasive wetland plant. |
Eliminating invasive plants and sod grass is necessary before beginning a restoration project. If left in place, the rapid growth of invasive plants and sod will often out-compete any natives. This is partly because native plants use their first few growing seasons to develop extensive roots systems. While this initially puts them at a disadvantage, once established they will be able to handle drought, pests, and adverse weather far better than non-native plants.
There are several ways to remove invasive plants though it is useful to research the particular plant you’re trying to eradicate. Its growth form and prevalence across the landscape will help inform which removal technique is most appropriate. Some options include hand pulling, digging, smothering, or chemical control with herbicides and pesticides. Explore the following links for more information on identifying and removing invasive plant species.
UW-Extension - Invasive Plants of Wisconsin (Link to UWEX)
DNR - Controlling Invasives (Link to DNR)
Wetland Invasive Plant List (PDF)
Terrestrial Invasive Plant List (PDF)