Why Bash Himalayan Balsam?

If you have walked on Hell Wath recently you will have noticed the proliferation of Himalayan Balsam. Great swathes of Balsam are clearly visible along the margins of the meadows and footpaths and there are many individual plants springing up across the meadows. Although they have a pretty pink flower and bees like them, Himalayan Balsam is a non-native species and it does damage by crowding out our native species of plants, which our native species of insects need to thrive.

Himalayan Balsam is a problem plant across the UK and this interesting article, posted by a Friends Group in Cornwall explains why and the steps taken to control it Himalayan Balsam (luxulyanvalley.co.uk)

FOHW are engaged in cutting down large areas of Balsam using hand scythes and are encouraging everyone to pull up Himalayan Balsam plants whenever they are on site. This will help keep the spread of Himalayan Balsam in check across Hell Wath.

Thanks for your help !