Friday, July 24, 2009




These are pics of Japanese Climbing Fern. I know that is a dandelion in the second picture, but that is another story for another day. Japanese Climbing fern is replacing kudzu in some areas of the South as an invasive plant. It probably came in with bamboo or other wood or plant products from the Far East. It will completely overwhelm and kill trees and other vegetation. It is also treated by weed killers, but will put out runners and is very difficult to get control after it grows and covers a large area. The best way to control is to dig it up and dispose of the root system. Since it is a true fern, the roots are not very deep, but on the negative side, roots form a heavy mat that is spread out. It is very pretty, but you don't want it in your garden. It is considered a major threat to forest areas in the South and Southeast. It will withstand freezing and come back strong. It prefers shady areas that have some moisture and organic matter.

No comments:

Post a Comment