Invasive plants

Invasive plants in Belarus are alien species (Sosnowski's hogweed, Canadian goldenrod, ash-leaved maple) that threaten ecosystems and human health. They spread rapidly, displacing native species. Control measures include mowing, digging up, and using herbicides, while the law prohibits the cultivation of dangerous species.

Main questions and answers:

What are invasive plants? These are plants introduced from other regions that reproduce uncontrollably, threatening local flora, the economy, and health (for example, hogweed causes burns).

Which plants are the most dangerous in the Republic of Belarus?

Sosnowski's hogweed: A giant umbrella plant, its sap causes severe burns.

Canadian goldenrod: An aggressive nectar plant that suppresses other plants.

Cutleaf waterleaf: A fast-growing vine.

Ash-leaved maple: A tree that invades river floodplains.

Robinia pseudoacacia.

How to combat invasive species?

Goldenrod: Mowing up to 2 times a season (May and August) before flowering, collecting and burning residues.

Hogweed: Digging up roots, cutting off flower heads, treating with herbicides.

Is there liability for their cultivation? Yes, the Law "On the Plant World" prohibits the cultivation and reproduction of the most aggressive species. Violations entail administrative liability.

Where to report? Reports of areas of mass growth should be made to local executive bodies (village councils, district executive committees).

A comprehensive approach is necessary for the destruction of such plants: mechanical removal is combined with chemical methods.