The Washington Invasive Species Council is asking for your help. Scotch Broom has been spotted in the area, and they are looking for residents of Washington to report sightings of this invasive weed through the Scotch Broom Census. If we all work together, noxious weed control will be just a little easier. Here’s what you need to know to take part in the Scotch Broom Census and do your part to help with weed control in Washington.
Why is Scotch Broom Bad for Washington?
Invasive species such as noxious weeds spread quickly, taking over the natural habitat of native plants in Washington. Scotch Broom crowds out other plants that the ecosystem depends on, they can make travel difficult for animals, and pose a fire hazard during fire season. The seeds are poisonous to both humans and livestock. For these reasons, the presence of Scotch Broom can cause destruction of the beautiful native Washington terrain.
How to Identify Scotch Broom
Scotch Broom is a six to 10-foot tall evergreen that has small, three-parted leaves on the bottom of the plant and simple leaves at the top. It blooms in the spring with a yellow flower that looks like a pea flower, and then after flowering it creates a black, hard, and hairy-edged seedpod. The branches stand erect, and the plant prefers to grow in full sun.
You’ll typically find this noxious weed on roadsides or in open fields, like pastures. It likes to take root in areas where the soil has recently been disturbed. Each plant produces thousands of seeds a year.
Prevent Noxious Weeds in Washington
Scotch Broom is one of many noxious weeds in Washington. If you are interested in Washington weed control, you must be vigilant about checking noxious weeds lists to see what new invasive species are coming to your area. These dangerous weeds destroy native plant growth and wildlife habitat, and many are dangerous to wildlife and livestock. This is why Scotch Broom removal and control is so important.
After learning how to identify noxious weeds in Washington, the next step is to proactively work to prevent them. If you spot noxious weeds growing, call the Washington Invasive Species Council for tips on weed control. With their help, you can safely remove the weeds so healthy plants can grow.
The Washington Invasive Species Council urges all Washington residents to report noxious weeds and other invasive species by contacting them directly on their website or through their app.
Get Help from the Washington Invasive Species Council
The Washington Invasive Species Council recommends downloading their Washington Invasives app for quick reporting of Scotch Broom sightings. The app also provides easy access to identifying noxious weeds in your area, as well as resources to controlling harmful species.
Download the Washington Invasives app for Android here.
Download the Washington Invasives app for iPhone here.
If you have concerns about Scotch Broom growing on or near your property, give the Washington Invasive Species Council a call.
