Himalayan Balsam as the name suggests originates from south east Asia. It was introduced into Britain in the 1800’s, along with many other oriental species, brought here by plant collectors working for commercial nurseries. However, unlike most other introduced plants, it is very invasive to the extent that it impoverishes habitats by its shading effect so killing off other plants. By law it is an offence to plant or cause Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) to grow in the wild.
We Need Your Help
Balsam plants, which grow up to 3 metres tall, can each produce 100’s of seeds, that are easily spread. The most effective way to control Balsam is to pull up the near-mature plants. Fortunately, they are shallow rooted so with care and practice can be pulled out of the ground intact. Then to kill the plant the stem should be snapped. The time of year to do this ‘Balsam Bashing’ is normally in July and early August – just after the birds’ nesting season and before the seeds appear. Unfortunately, this is not a one off task. The seeds can lie dormant in the ground for several years before they germinate. So, it is necessary to go back to areas previously cleared years before and repeat the job.
This year several groups are helping us – the Probation Service Community Payback team, volunteers from Lancashire Wildlife Trust and the Bibby Group, along with pupils from St Laurence’s C of E Primary School. But that still won’t be enough to remove all the Balsam from Astley Park. Friends’ volunteers are doing an extra Saturday morning session on 6th July along with a scheduled one on 13th. If you want to help us please come along to the Coach House courtyard for 9.30am in long sleeves and trousers with sturdy footwear and gloves.
Balsam crowding the path behind Rectory Close.
Friends of Astley Park 