Is Reed canary grass native to Wisconsin?

Is Reed canary grass native to Wisconsin?

Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) is perhaps the worst invasive species in Wisconsin, to date. Although the plants can be killed by a variety of methods, vigorous re-invasion is common and none of our native species appear to be capable of competing with Phalaris in a disturbed landscape.

Is Reed canary grass an invasive species?

Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The European variety is particularly aggressive and it is likely that the invasive varieties are cultivars that were crossbred for fast growth.

Where can I find reed canary grass?

Phalaris arundinacea, or reed canary grass, is a tall, perennial bunchgrass that commonly forms extensive single-species stands along the margins of lakes and streams and in wet open areas, with a wide distribution in Europe, Asia, northern Africa and North America.

Why is reed canary grass an invasive species?

Reed canary grass can outcompete native species in wetlands with high nitrogen content and excess nutrient run-off. Reducing the nitrogen entering the wetland system may better allow native species like Sedges (Carex spp.) to compete.

What does the reed canary grass compete with?

RCG tillering from rhizome. RCG can root from the stem nodes late in the growing season. Some members of the genus Carex begin active growth in early spring and will compete with RCG for light, nutirents and space.

How tall is reed canary grass?

2 to 9 feet
Description: Reed canary grass is a large, coarse grass in the grass family (Poaceae) that reaches 2 to 9 feet in height. It has an erect, hairless stem with gradually tapering leaf blades 3 1/2 to 10 inches long and 1/4 to 3/4 inch in width.

How do you control canary grass?

Covering and mulching has been used with some success to control reed canarygrass. The entire area should be covered with several layers of cardboard and several inches of mulch, or with a heavy woven plastic fabric anchored in place. The covering must be kept in place and intact for at least an entire growing season.

What is reed canary grass used for?

Reed canarygrass can be used for pasture, hay or silage. Recovery following defoliation is excellent in the spring and early summer and is fair to good in late summer and early fall. However, it is frost-sensitive and will turn brown quickly after early fall frosts.