Department of Forest Resources researcher Mike Schuster joined MPR’s Minnesota Now with Nina Moini to highlight promising findings on combating invasive buckthorn in Minnesota woodlands.
During the interview, Schuster explained why clearing buckthorn is often an uphill battle that requires multiple rounds of management, even in small areas. He detailed how planting fast-growing native species, particularly wild rye grasses, immediately after buckthorn removal helps prevent the invasive shrub from dominating the forest floor. This management tactic can be applied at any scale, making it a practical solution for forest managers and landowners alike.
Listen to the full segment: “U of M study finds native plants could help keep buckthorn away for good”.