This month’s weed to look out for is Privet. Privet can be easily spotted throughout the forested areas in Polk County. Just look along any stream in the area and notice this evergreen shrub growing on or near the stream bank.

Unfortunately Privet is an exotic or non-native plant. It is unclear why this woody weed has multiplied so frequently in this county. Perhaps songbirds have been eating the black berries common on older, mature privet plants, and spreading it throughout the county.

Privet can range in height from six inches to nearly 20 feet. It has evergreen foliage and for decades was trimmed into a hedge and used locally in equestrian rings and jumps.

Now is a great time to attempt to remove the Privet from properties. In order to eliminate the plants organically the roots must be removed as well. Otherwise treat the Privet stumps with a recommended herbicide. For information on herbicide options contact Polk County Extension Center in Columbus at 828-894-8218.

Polk County weed watch is a series of articles pointing out most of the areas worst weed problems.

-article submitted 

by John Vining