This is potentially a game-changer when it comes to dealing with #Knotweed (which just laughs at #Glyphosate)!

#MeshTech: A New Strategy for Managing Knotweed

February 24, 2026

"Knotweed (#Reynoutria spp.) is a severely invasive plant originating from Eastern Asia. Introduced to the East Coast in the late 1800s as an ornamental, knotweed has since become ubiquitous across North America, reaching over 40 US states and 8 Canadian provinces. Knotweed has proven extremely detrimental to a wide variety of ecosystems in which it has established. Forming tall, dense thickets, knotweed shades out native plants, preventing them from growing. Additionally, knotweed is #allelopathic, meaning it releases organic compounds into the soil that inhibits the growth of native plant species.

Knotweed also increases erosion along streams and riverbanks. By shading out native groundcover species and reducing the diverse root reinforcement provided by native species in riparian zones, riverbanks lose considerably more soil when infested with stands of knotweed (Hammer 2019, Matte et al. 2021). This erosion can increase turbidity of waterways, potentially affecting fish and other aquatic species (Henley et al. 2000). The reduction of native plants in riparian zones paired with winter dieback of knotweed stems also leaves riverbanks extremely vulnerable to winter and early spring flooding. This degradation of the riparian area creates a feedback loop in which floods carry knotweed propagules downstream, where they can colonize and increase erosion in new areas (Colleran et al. 2020).

Historically, management of knotweed has been extremely time-and-resource intensive. Large populations require years of consistent treatment, often combining mechanical and chemical approaches to be effective. This commitment to diligent, multi-year mechanical treatment can be discouraging and can lead many to abandon treatment plans before completion. However, a new knotweed management technique could reduce labor inputs.

Developed by Dr. Eric Donnelly, the MeshTech management technique has produced promising results at managing the growth and spread of knotweed while dramatically reducing labor inputs. This method involves cutting knotweed stems down to the soil level and laying -inch galvanized steel hardware fencing over the cut stems. When knotweed resprouts, it grows through the openings in the fencing. As stems mature and thicken, the metal fencing will begin to cut into the stems.

The knotweed will continue to grow through the fencing, effectively girdling itself at its base. This method aims to impact knotweed's nutrient pathways while also damaging the structural integrity of the plant. Alone, this method cannot eradicate knotweed populations. However, the MeshTech method can potentially reduce the health and vigor of knotweed, thus reducing the amount of cutting required in a growing season and the rate of spread in an area.

At the #PleasantHillPreserve in #ScarboroughME, the #ScarboroughLandTrust (#SLT) has begun implementing the MeshTech method to manage a portion of their knotweed infestation. An effort led by SLTs #Stewardship Director Sami Wolf and Nathan Hjort, owner of Absolutely Complete Property Services, initial results indicate that the hardware fencing is proving successful. The knotweed forced to grow through the hardware fencing at Pleasant Hill Preserve showed clear signs of strain. Stems demonstrated significantly stunted growth and had even begun flowering early, an indication that a plant is under stress. While knotweed struggled to grow through the -inch holes, #NativeFlora had begun to sprout up through the hardware fencing. Other knotweed management practices, such as #tarping or mowing, often discourage the growth of native species in a management area. Over time, the presence of native flora could provide an extra level of #BioticResistance that could help slow the growth of knotweed and help kickstart #NativeRevegetation efforts. Eventually, supplemental plantings of native woody species can take place by cutting openings in the fence to allow for these larger species to grow. The fence can also be easily staked down, preventing knotweed or moving water from moving it out of place.

It is important to note that knotweed is a resilient plant and there is no single management action alone that will completely eliminate a population. The most effective knotweed management strategies use creative combinations of multiple approaches. Knotweed is a rhizomatous species, meaning it has an extensive, underground nutrient storage system made up of horizontal rhizomes that store nutrients. Draining this underground nutrient storage is the key to effectively managing an infestation. Consistent cutting of knotweed forces the plant to exhaust its below ground resources. By combining a cutting regimen with the MeshTech method, land managers could potentially see a significant reduction in their management timeline.

The effectiveness of this method provides promising implications for the future of knotweed management in Maine. Paired with consistent management, the MeshTech method could provide Maine with another tool to mitigate the spread of knotweed and reduce our reliance on chemical treatments."

Source:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343931

#SolarPunkSunday #NaturalSolutions #NoHerbicides #HerbicideAlternatives #JapaneseKnotweed #LandTrusts #Rewilding #NativePlantSpecies #RestoringNativePlantSpecies #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek
#MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

#EDRR Alert: Status Update of #Stiltgrass in #Maine

February 24, 2026

"Background

Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is a severely invasive, annual grass originating from southern Asia. Originally introduced to Tennessee in 1919, stiltgrass has seen unbridled spread across the eastern United States over the past century. In Maine, stiltgrass is classified as an early detection and rapid response invasive species (EDRR). EDRR species are recent invaders, meaning they can still be feasibly eradicated from the state. A prolific seed producer, stiltgrass easily invades natural areas and outcompetes many of our native #groundcover species. Stiltgrass is also highly #allelopathic, meaning it releases organic compounds into the soil that degrade the health of the soil and inhibit the growth of other plant species.

As the growing season ends, stiltgrass stems dry out, leaving a thick layer of dry thatch along the forest floor. This introduces a severe #wildfire risk to any invaded areas. Due to the countless negative impacts that stiltgrass poses on Maine's natural areas, identifying stiltgrass populations and managing its spread is among the highest priorities for invasive species management in the state.

Identification

There are several characteristics that can be used to identify stiltgrass and distinguish this species from our native grasses in Maine. The most reliable identifying characteristic for stiltgrass can be found on its pale green, alternate leaves. On the upper surface of stiltgrass leaves is a recognizable silvery midrib (central vein running along the length of the leaf). This silver midrib is unique to stiltgrass and is not found on any of Maines native grasses. Additionally, the texture of stiltgrass leaves is extremely smooth or silky. Nearly all of Maine's #NativeGrasses possess a sticky or grippy texture when passing the leaves between your fingers.

Stiltgrass can also be distinguished from native grasses using its growth form. Mature plants produce aerial roots, or 'stilt roots' (the namesake for this species), at lower nodes along the stem that help to prop up the plant. This trait is unique to stiltgrass. Additionally, stiltgrass tends to branch out close to the ground, producing several main stems that may appear to have a sprawling growth habit. This trait is extremely uncommon among Maines native grass species."

Learn more:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343932

#SolarPunkSunday #Fields #SoilHealth #NativeGrasses #InvasiveGrasses #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek
#MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

#MDACF - #InvasiveInsects on the Horizon: #BoxTreeMoth and #SpottedLanternfly

February 25, 2026

"Two invasive insects are spreading in the United States. Neither is known to be established in Maine, although both are closing in around our borders. Please be aware of these insects and report any suspicious sightings to help our efforts to manage them.

Box Tree Moth

If you have #boxwood plantings, keep your eyes out for box tree moth. This invasive pest was first discovered in #NewYork in 2021 and has subsequently spread to at least 10 other states despite state and federal quarantines. It has also been confirmed in #NewBrunswick, Canada near the Maine border.

Boxwoods infested with box tree moth are characterized by leaf defoliation, the presence of silken threads, and girdling of twigs. A heavy infestation will lead to plant mortality.

Although adult moths are strong fliers, box tree moth mostly moves to new areas as eggs and overwintering caterpillars on boxwood plants. These life stages are easy to miss, so it's important to check your boxwoods carefully for signs of this new invasive insect. If you suspect you have box tree moth, immediately contact [email protected].


Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is a large planthopper that has been spreading around the eastern half of the United States since 2016, where it is now in 18 states. It is still not known to be established in Maine, although we periodically receive reports of adult lanternflies, generally observed at rest areas and in warehouses.

Originally from Asia, the spotted lanternfly "hitchhiked" to Pennsylvania as egg masses on stone tile imports. When the eggs hatched in the spring, the little planthopper nymphs found their way to some preferred host plants, like tree-of-heaven, maple, and grape. Planthoppers have straw-like mouthparts (stylets) that they insert into plants to suck out the juices. This type of feeding can severely weaken the plant and sometimes spread diseases. The spotted lanternfly sticks its stylet into the stem and bark of plants, extracting the sap and exuding honeydew," a sticky liquid that rains down on surfaces, promoting the growth of sooty mold.

The spotted lanternfly has caused plant mortality in states where its firmly established. Please familiarize yourself with the different life stages of this bug and report any sightings. Please send photos or collect the specimen and email us: [email protected]."

Source:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343929

Box Tree Moth
(Cydalima perspectalis)

Exotic Insect Pest Fact Sheet (via #CornellUniversity)

https://cals.cornell.edu/integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/fact-sheets/box-tree-moth

#SolarPunkSunday #SaveTheTrees #Forestry #Stewardship #CitizenScience #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek
#MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

#MDACF - What #Mainers are Asking About #JumpingWorms

February 25, 2026

'Following a recent two-day jumping worm workshop hosted by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), it is clear that jumping worms are a top concern for #Maine #gardeners and land managers. This event brought together a knowledgeable lineup of leading researchers from across North America to share the latest science and management strategies.

While the first established populations in the state were discovered as recently as 2014, these invasive pests are now considered widespread and have been confirmed in 13 of Maine's 16 counties. With hundreds of questions submitted by workshop registrants, several key themes emerged regarding how to identify, manage, and prevent the spread of these invasive worms.

Identification: "Is this a jumping worm?"

Many Mainers are concerned about distinguishing jumping worms from other species of earthworms.

- Monitor with a Mustard Drench: To see if jumping worms are present at your location, mix 1/3 cup of ground mustard with a gallon of water and pour it directly on the soil (in a forested setting, brush away leaf litter first); this irritates the worms and brings them to the surface for identification.
- The Timing: Because they are annuals (having a lifespan of only one year), juveniles appear in May and June and are very small and hard to identify. It is best to wait until late July or August to confirm their identity once they develop their distinctive collar.
- The Look: Look for a milky white or gray collar (clitellum) that is smooth, flat, and completely encircles the body like a ring. In contrast, European earthworms have a raised, saddle-shaped clitellum that only goes partway around.
- The Behavior: Jumping worms do not crawl like typical earthworms; they thrash vigorously and wriggle like snakes when touched.

Spread & Prevention: "How do I stop them?"

The most common way jumping worms move is through human activity, particularly the movement of soil, compost, mulch, and nursery plants.

- The "Hidden" Threat: The worms themselves die each winter, but they leave behind tiny, soil-colored cocoons that are nearly impossible to see.
- Arrive Clean, Leave Clean: Cocoons can hitchhike in the treads of #HikingBoots and #tires. Using boot brushes at trailheads and cleaning tools before moving between garden beds is essential.
- Plant Sales & Nursery Stock: When possible, choose bare-root plants and rinse the roots into a bucket to ensure no cocoons are hiding in the root ball.
- Contain and Return: Always dump the wash water and mud back onto the original site where you collected the plants or soil; this ensures you aren't accidentally moving "hitchhiking" cocoons to a new, uninfested area. If you need to dispose of the material, wash your gear over a bucket to capture the sediment, let the soil settle before pouring off the water, and once the remaining mud dries, bag and #solarize it (heating it to at least 104F) before putting it in the trash.

Things you can do right now:

- #Solarization: In Maine, this works best in the peak of summer when the sun is strongest. Spread a thin layer of infested soil, about 6-8 inches deep, onto a #DarkTarp and cover it with a clear drop cloth, sealing the edges to create a "package." Place a simple soil thermometer in the center to track temperature. Research suggests reaching 104F for at least two hours can kill the worms and egg-containing cocoons. If you don't have a soil thermometer, plan to leave the covered soil in full sun for at least three days. On clear, hot summer days, a thin layer will often reach target temperatures within one to two days, but the extra time helps ensure consistent heating throughout the pile and improves your chances of success.
- Hand Removal: For small populations, you can hand-pick worms and drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them."

Learn more:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343933

#SolarPunkSunday #Gardening #MaineGardens #Compost #NaturalPestControl #NaturalPestSolutions #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek
#MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

#Maine - #EmeraldAshBorer - Watch for #Woodpecker Activity

#MDACF - February 26, 2026

"Emerald ash borer (#AgrilusPlanipennis) has been detected in new towns in Maine. Watch for woodpecker activity and report trees that have signs of emerald ash borer.

Emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive wood-boring beetle that attacks and kills native ash trees (Fraxinus spp.), resulting in significant cultural, ecological, and economic impacts.

In winter, woodpeckers knock off tree bark in search for food (including EAB larvae), which may help us identify trees with EAB from a distance:

- Light patches of missing bark on stems of ash trees
- Dark chips of ash bark littering the snow
- "S" shaped tunnels underneath the ash bark

Check for these signs while on a snowshoe track, swooshing down slopes, or even sitting down for a meal at your local Chinese restaurant (it happened!). We are actively monitoring for EAB statewide and could use your help checking ash trees.

Stay Informed

Although EAB has caused destruction of ash ecosystems across North America, including here in Maine, there is hope for these trees. In our area, groups like Ash Protection Collaboration Across #Wabanakik (#APCAW) and Sustaining Ash Partners Network (#SAPNe) are building collaborative efforts towards keeping ash in our forests. Join SAP-Ne to learn how to preserve and propagate ash seed and about efforts towards maintaining the genetic diversity of ash in our region."

Learn more:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343928

#SolarPunkSunday #SaveTheTrees #Forestry #Stewardship #CitizenScience #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek #NewEngland #ProtectTheSacred
#MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

Note - #AsianLadyBeetles, another #InvasiveSpecies, actually feeds on Hemlock Woolly Adelgid! A reason to shoo the beetles outside if they are in your house!

#Maine [and #NewEngland] - Help Track a #Hemlock Pest

February 26, 2026

"#HemlockWoollyAdelgid (#HWA) is an #aphid-like invasive insect that feeds on and can kill hemlock trees in Maine. To find HWA, look:

- On hemlock trees. In North America, HWA is found only on hemlock trees.
- On the undersides of hemlock twigs. At this time of year, HWA is covered in white tufts of wax and is easy to see. Look for discrete 'woolly' masses.
At fallen twigs on top of the snow, as this will give you a picture of what is happening high in the crown. Unless you are in an area where HWA is commonly found (such as southern coastal towns), please let us know if you find it.

Unless you are in an area where HWA is commonly found (such as southern coastal towns), please let us know if you find it. "

Wikipedia: "Accidentally introduced to North America from Japan, HWA was first found in the eastern United States near Richmond, #Virginia, in 1951. The pest is now found from northern #Georgia to coastal# Maine and southwestern Nova Scotia as well as areas of western #Michigan near the eastern #LakeMichigan shoreline. As of 2015, HWA has affected 90% of the geographic range of #EasternHemlock in North America."

Read more [includes photos for identification]:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343953

#SolarPunkSunday #HemlockTrees #SaveTheTrees #Forestry
#Stewardship #InvasiveSpecies
#InvasiveSpeciesWeek #NaturalPestControl
#NewEngland #EasternCanada
#Massachusetts #EasternSeaboard #MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

#MDACF - #BrowntailMoth in #Maine - Spotlight

February 27, 2026

"BrowntailMoth (Euproctis chrysorrhoea L.) populations decreased in some areas in 2025, but are still elevated in others. Check trees this winter to see whether your community may be impacted by browntail moth this spring. If you find winter webs, take action to make a difference!

Browntail Moth (#BTM) is an invasive insect of forest and human health concern that feeds on #oak, #apple, #cherry, #crabapple, #elm, #birch, #poplar, #shadbush, and #rugosa rose bushes in Maine. BTM caterpillars have irritating hairs that break off their bodies and settle in the environment, causing an #ItchyRash for humans that come in contact with the hairs.

In the winter, look for palm-sized BTM winter webs at the tips of trees to see if you may be dealing with BTM caterpillars in the spring and summer. Actions to take in the winter and spring:

- Scout for and remove winter webs with hand snips or an extendable pole pruner in areas you can safely reach. Destroy webs in a contained fire or soak the webs in a bucket of soapy water for a few days before disposing.
- Find professional help if you can't reach and remove winter webs. Licensed arborists, pesticide applicators, and FAA-certified drone operators may be able to help you remove webs or treat your infested trees to reduce BTM populations.
- Insecticide treatments in mid-April to mid-May may also be effective at reducing populations.

In mid-April, BTM caterpillars will emerge from their winter webs and begin feeding on the buds and leaves of their host trees until late June. Actions to take in late spring and summer:

- Learn how to identify the browntail caterpillar and avoid areas where these caterpillars have been.
- Change clothes and shower after working in infested areas to wash away irritating hairs and prevent the rash.
- Keep outdoor lights off in July to dissuade BTM adult moths from flying near your dooryard and laying eggs in nearby trees."

Source:
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/about/news/news.shtml?id=13343956

#SolarPunkSunday #SaveTheTrees #NaturalPestSolutions #Forestry #Stewardship #InvasiveSpecies #InvasiveSpeciesWeek #Maine #NewEngland #EasternCanada #Massachusetts #MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

So, one of the topics I'll be covering for this week's #SolarPunkSunday is #InvasiveInsects. #MDACF has been posting some really good information about a variety of pests, and offers natural solutions for some of them. Topics include #JumpingWorms, #EmeraldAshBorer, #HemlockWoollyAdelgid, #BoxTreeMoth and #SpottedLanternflies.

#InvasiveSpeciesAwareness #InvasiveSpeciesWeek #InvasiveSpecies #AshTrees #BoxElders #SaveTheForests #ProtectTheTrees #SolarPunkSunday #Biocontrol #HemlockTrees #MaineDepartmentOfAgricultureConservationAndForestry

RT @IPSN_BGCI: #InvasiveSpeciesWeek has started but there are too many different plant-threatening species to fit in one tweet... 😵‍💫

Luckily we have resources for 22 different organisms available for free over on our website!

https://www.bgci.org/resources/bgci-tools-and-resources/ipsn-posters/ https://t.co/TH8jOxtTWh

🐦🔗: https://n.respublicae.eu/Plants_EFSA/status/1658410584847663106