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It’s always a good idea to know when to weed, especially invasives. Garlic mustard seeds are soon to drop, so weeding before they do nips the problem of proliferation in the bud.
The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is planning a series of late afternoon forays next week into the city parks it manages to remove garlic mustard -- one of the prettier invasives, but don't be fooled. PPC needs volunteers. (This photo is pre-budding, the small one below shows you what the blossoms look like.)
The first one is from 5 to 7p Monday in Highland Park. Meet at Sycamore Grove. Tuesday’s at the same time is at the Frick Park Environmental Center, 5 to 7 PM.
On Wednesday, meet at the Schenley Park Visitor Center, 5 to 7p. Thursday’s outing is in Cliffside Park in the Hill, at Cliff and Cassatt Sts, 4.30 to 7.30p.
Friday, meet at the Riverview Park Chapel Shelter for a weeding from 5 to 7p.
You don’t have to register and you won’t be charged for the privilege. Just show up in long pants and close-toed shoes. PPC will provide gloves and trash bags.
Any questions? Contact
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or 412.682.7275 ext. 232.
According to the state Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources, "Garlic mustard poses a severe threat to native plants and animals in forest communities in much of the eastern and midwestern U.S. Many native widlflowers that complete their life cycles in the springtime (e.g., spring beauty, wild ginger, bloodroot, Dutchman's breeches, hepatica, toothworts, and trilliums) occur in the same habitat as garlic mustard.
"Once introduced to an area, garlic mustard outcompetes native plants by aggressively monopolizing light, moisture, nutrients, soil and space. Wildlife species that depend on these early plants for their foliage, pollen, nectar, fruits, seeds and roots, are deprived of these essential food sources when garlic mustard replaces them. Humans are also deprived of the vibrant display of beautiful spring wildflowers."