Buckthorn Control Requires Early Native Plant Investment

University of Minnesota researchers have identified an effective strategy to prevent the resurgence of invasive common buckthorn, a problematic shrub that degrades ecosystems and outcompetes native plants. The study, published in *Ecological Applications*, recommends that land managers not only remove buckthorn but also promptly plant native grasses and wildflowers in the cleared areas to suppress the invasive species’ return. This dual approach, prioritizing early intervention, offers a scalable solution for restoring ecological balance in affected regions.

The research, conducted over multiple growing seasons in controlled field trials, demonstrated that sowing native vegetation immediately after buckthorn removal significantly reduced the shrub’s reestablishment. Without the addition of native plants, residual buckthorn seeds in the soil often led to rapid reinvasion. By contrast, sites seeded with native species saw improved soil health, increased biodiversity, and a 70% reduction in buckthorn regrowth compared to unseeded plots. The findings underscore the importance of timing, as delaying native planting allowed buckthorn to regain a foothold.

The study highlights a critical opportunity for land managers to integrate proactive restoration techniques into invasive species control. By combining mechanical removal with native plant reintroduction, the strategy addresses both immediate threats and long-term ecological resilience. Researchers emphasize that this approach not only combats buckthorn but also supports habitat recovery, offering a model for managing other invasive species through targeted, science-based interventions.