Invasive plants in Jelgava: situation not critical but awareness needed
Jelgava has fewer invasive plant species than surrounding areas, but residents need to be aware of which plants are dangerous. A successful example from Zebrene parish in Dobele district shows long-term efforts can reduce Sosnovsky's hogweed.
During the brightest time of the year, many plants bloom, including invasive species found in Jelgava. Residents sometimes unknowingly plant these in their gardens. To understand the situation, Zemgales Ziņas contacted Jelgava city municipality's "Pilsētsaimniecība" and spoke with senior greenery specialist Megija Čistjakova.
She mentioned that she recently attended a seminar on invasive plants with colleagues. The seminar was part of a cross-border project and included specialists from Jelgava district. The district has many more invasive plants due to large agricultural areas. In the city, built-up areas mean fewer invasive species.
The seminar highlighted a success story from Zebrene parish in Dobele municipality. A part of the area overrun by Sosnovsky's hogweed was reclaimed through intensive mowing and herbicide treatment over 15 years. Although plants still emerge, their leaves are smaller. The specialist emphasizes that while the fight is long, it can be won with consistent action.
