Himalayan Balsam is a non-native, invasive plant that has become widespread along riverbanks and ditches, especially close to towns. It is fast-growing, spreads quickly, and will crowd out native plants. In Wrenthorpe it grows in several places – particularly along the streams, in the lagoon area of the park, and on parts of Lindale Lane. Although the pink flower is quite attractive, if allowed to go to seed the explosive seed pods aid the plant’s spread by sending the seeds up to 10 metres. If the plants are on a river bank the seeds get into the water and can quickly be dispersed downstream, greatly increasing the problem. Each year we try to deal with it before it seeds, by having “Balsam Bashing” sessions in May and June. When flowering it is easy to find and is pulled up by its very shallow roots, which is not as strenuous as it might sound, and can be very satisfying.
