Balsam Bash - Friday 7th June 4.30pm - 6.15pm
Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is an invasive terrestrial plant species that was first introduced in 1839 as an ornamental garden plant. Since it was introduced, it has spread rapidly as it has adapted to our climate and has the ability to develop thousands of seeds.
It is a tall annual plant (completes its life cycle in one year) and due to its rapid growth, it shades out most of our native species, leaving banks bare in the winter time.
The species is particularly frequent in damp soil areas such as along the banks of watercourses, where it often forms continuous stands. It can also establish in damp woodland, flushes and mires.
Join us as we attempt to eradicate this plant from an area of the C2C track in Beamish.
We will be meeting at 4.30pm at the coordinates given which take you to a seat on the C2C track (there's an Earthcache here).
Feel free to drop in at any time.
Parking is available at Eden Place picnic area which is a short walk away.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please come along dressed for the weather with sturdy footwear and a drink / snack for yourself. Wellies would be beneficial as would a pair of gardening gloves if you have them. Long trousers to cover your legs would be good as there will be a few nettles too!