![]() Disclaimer: This series is informational only and does not act as a substitute for the Indiana Pesticide Applicators Certification. For more information on obtaining an Indiana Pesticide Applicator License please see the Office of the Indiana State Chemist. This is the second article in the series, to read Part 1 click here. Effective herbicide and pesticide management is crucial for effective invasive species control, maintaining healthy crops, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. This article explores the different types of control methods, the concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), pesticide resistance, and considerations for herbicide selection. What is a pest? A pest is any organism harmful to humans or human concerns. Pesticides are chemicals used to control pests and can be broken down into herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides which control plants, insects, and fungi respectively. For these blogs, the term herbicide and pesticide can be used interchangeably, but we will use herbicide as often as possible. Methods of Control Biological Control Biological control involves using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens to manage pest populations. This method leverages the natural ecosystem to keep pest levels in check without relying on synthetic chemicals. The advantages of this approach include environmental sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Biological control is not always an effective solution, however. If no pests are known or not enough research has been done to test their ecological impact biological control may not be possible. Consult with your local SWCD or extension office to learn if biological control might be right for you. Mechanical Control Mechanical control methods physically remove or block pests. Techniques include tilling the soil, hand-pulling weeds, using traps, and installing barriers like nets or fences. Another example of mechanical control would be pulling Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) seedlings in the early Spring. Mechanical control is often labor-intensive but can be highly effective for small-scale operations or specific pest problems. Cultural Control Cultural control involves modifying practices to reduce invasive plant establishment, reproduction, and survival. Techniques include crop rotation, repeated mowing, mulching, adjusting planting times, and selecting pest-resistant crop varieties. These practices create unfavorable conditions for pests, thereby reducing their impact without chemical intervention. Chemical Control Chemical control involves the application of herbicides and pesticides to manage pest populations. This method is often used when immediate and effective control is needed. While chemical control can be highly effective, it requires careful management to avoid issues such as herbicide resistance development, non-target species impact, and environmental contamination. Methods of chemical control include cut-stump herbicide application, foliar herbicide application, basal barking, and hack-and-squirt treatments. ![]() Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach that combines multiple control methods to manage pest populations in an economically and ecologically sound manner. IPM principles include:
Herbicide Resistance What is it? Herbicide resistance occurs when pest populations develop the ability to survive exposure to a herbicide that was previously effective against them. This resistance arises due to genetic variation and selective pressure from repeated herbicide use, leading to the survival and reproduction of resistant individuals. How to Avoid Herbicide Resistance
![]() Herbicide Selection When selecting herbicides there are a variety of factors that should be considered: What Are You Managing? Identify the specific weeds or pests you need to control. Different herbicides target different species, so accurate identification ensures effective management. Two major types of herbicides are broad-spectrum herbicides and selective herbicides. Broad-spectrum herbicides (Round Up) will kill most plants as long as the herbicide concentration is correct. Selective herbicides target a specific group of plants such as grasses or plants classified as broad-leaves. Using selective herbicides where possible helps us minimize unwanted effects. Environmental Concerns Consider the environmental impact of the herbicide. Choose products with low toxicity to non-target organisms, minimal soil and water contamination potential, and rapid degradation in the environment. Personal Need/Comfortability with Application Assess your comfort level and ability to apply the herbicide safely and effectively. Consider factors such as the complexity of application, required protective equipment, and potential health risks. Effective herbicide and herbicide management involves a combination of control methods, adherence to IPM principles, and careful consideration of resistance and environmental impact. By integrating biological, mechanical, cultural, and chemical controls, landowners can manage pests sustainably and responsibly. Selecting appropriate herbicides and understanding the risks associated with herbicide use are essential for maintaining and protecting the environment. For further information or assistance, contact Hamilton County SWCD.
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Written by Jacob Luken Disclaimer: This series is informational only and does not act as a substitute for the Indiana Pesticide Applicators Certification. For more information on obtaining an Indiana Pesticide Applicator License please see the Office of the Indiana State Chemist. Whether applying on a ¼ acre lot in the city or on hundreds of acres of farmland or woodland property chances are you will eventually need to apply some form of herbicides to control unwanted plants. Herbicides can be one of our greatest tools for plant management - from controlling unwanted weeds between the cracks of the sidewalk to maintaining farm fields or removing invasive species – so it is important to know how to best protect ourselves and our environment from unwanted effects of herbicides. Join Hamilton County Soil and Water on our multi-part series covering the dos and don’ts of herbicide selection and application where we will discuss everything you need to know about safely selecting and applying herbicides to manage unwanted and invasive plants on your property. What is an Herbicide?![]() An herbicide is a chemical substance used to control or kill unwanted plants, such as weeds. Herbicides can be selective or non-selective:
Why do we use Herbicides?Herbicides are used for various purposes across different sectors, including agriculture, forestry, landscaping, and urban management. Here are some of the primary uses of herbicides:
In the heart of Hamilton County’s woodlands, a quiet transformation begins as spring sets in. Quickly, the forest floor is dotted with a kaleidoscope of colors as native wildflowers sprout and bloom in various shades of blues, yellows, pinks, and whites. Some of the most sought-after forest-dwelling wildflowers are the spring ephemerals – plants with a brief but dazzling moment in the spotlight. Trilliums, with their elegant three-petaled blooms, stand as iconic symbols of spring, while bloodroot unveils its delicate white petals against scalloped leaves, and dutchman's breeches and squirrel corn unveil their unusually shaped flowers. Conservation ChallengesSpring ephemerals face numerous threats, including habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. Protecting these delicate ecosystems requires collective action and a commitment to preserving Indiana's natural heritage for future generations to enjoy. Invasive species such as Asian Bush Honeysuckles, Garlic Mustard, and Multiflora rose outcompete ephemerals and other native plants for space and nutrients, reducing biodiversity and diminishing the natural beauty of our forests. Exploring Hamilton County's Natural WondersFor those eager to experience the magic of spring ephemerals firsthand, Hamilton County offers a wealth of opportunities. Teter Retreat and Organic Farm in Noblesville, Cool Creek Park in Carmel, and Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve in Fishers are only a few of the local sources of brilliant spring ephemerals.
Venture into the woods, breathe in the fragrant air, and allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty of Hamilton County’s natural areas. In doing so, you'll not only deepen your connection to nature but also gain a newfound appreciation for the intricate tapestry of life that thrives beneath our feet. Native Replacements for Invasive Honeysuckles Planted for its ability to grow thick living fences, invasive bush honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.) are one of the most common invasive species found in Hamilton County. Chances are, no matter where you are in the county, either you or your neighbors have this ecosystem-altering invasive plant. Honeysuckle spreads rapidly in both woodland environments and in our backyards, reducing biodiversity by pushing out native plants that provide the food and shelter needed for native wildlife. Roughly 85% of Indiana’s forestland is privately owned, so it is up to us as citizens to take charge and become stewards of our land. One of the biggest questions after removing invasive species can be what to plant next. Bush honeysuckles grow in thick stands that, once removed, can leave large areas of bare ground. In forested areas it can be a cost-effective solution to simply wait and see what grows back from seeds that remain dormant in the ground, but in a landscaped area it might be necessary to replant one of our many beneficial native shrubs to replace bush honeysuckle. To purchase these plants locally or online, please visit our website for retailers of native plants. For a more extensive list of Indiana native shrubs, see the Native Plants Finder by the Indiana Wildlife Federation Smooth Hydrangea Hydrangea aborescens Arrowwood Viburnum Viburnum dentatum Black Chokeberry Photinia melanocarpus Roughleaf Dogwood Cornus drummondiiNannyberry Viburnum lentago A soil test is a process by which elements (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, boron, sulfur, manganese, copper, iron, and zinc) are chemically removed from the soil and measured for their "plant available" content within the sample. The quantity of available nutrients in the sample determines the amount of fertilizer or other soil amendments that are recommended. A soil test also measures soil pH, organic matter, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). These analyses indicate whether lime, elemental sulfur, or iron is needed and, if so, how much to apply.
Why Have Your Soil Tested? 1. You can encourage plant growth by providing the best amendments, fertilizers, or other soil recommendations. When growers guess about the need for lime, elemental sulfur, fertilizers, etc., too little or too much of a product is likely to be applied. By using a soil test report, the grower does not need to guess. For Example: Many urban soils already have too high of a pH level, which causes nutrients such as iron, manganese, boron, copper and zinc to become less available to plants. Routinely applying lime will raise pH even higher, whereas adding elemental sulfur will help to lower the pH level. 2. It diagnoses whether there is too little or too much of a nutrient. Too much of a certain nutrient can be just as detrimental as too little of a nutrient. Knowing how much to add, or withhold for a time, will be of benefit to the targeted crop (lawn, vegetable garden, trees, flowers, etc.). 3. Promotes environmental quality. When gardeners apply only as much fertilizer as is necessary, nutrient runoff into surface or ground water is minimized and natural resources are better protected. 4. Saves money! Some homeowners routinely apply unnecessary products, such as phosphorus to their lawns. In areas where soil levels are high in phosphorus (which is common), a soil test could save these homeowners money. The SWCD offers low cost soil testing for lawns and gardens. Most participants are able to easily collect the sample themselves and bring it to the office. Results are typically available in 7-10 days and include a customized report for your growing area (lawn versus vegetable garden versus trees, etc.). Learn more about the SWCD’s soil testing options, how to collect a sample and more at www.hamiltonswcd.org/soil-testing ![]() By Lynsey Johnston If hostas are the only plant that comes to mind when you think about a shade garden, prepare to expand your mind with a list of plants that not only add beauty to your landscape, but help regenerate biodiversity and ecosystem function all within your own backyard! 1. Do your research. When you are ready to purchase plants for your garden, be sure to focus on the italicized botanical name to ensure you are selecting the correct species. If you enjoy watching songbirds, insects, or other wildlife in your gardens, you can plant host species that are or attract their food source. A great resource to learn more about attracting wildlife to your yard is Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy. You can find this book and more in our tool loan library! 2. Shop local. Many of the plants listed below are available at various local plant sales, and at our local to Hamilton County native plant nursery, Native Plants Unlimited. Click here for a larger list of where to buy native plants. Check out the Indiana Native Plant Society for a more exhaustive list of shade plant possibilities for our area! Indiana Native Plant Finder Tool - Indiana Native Plant Society Many of the plants listed above will be available at the Hamilton County Master Gardener Plant Sale on May 17 & 18th and at our local to Hamilton County native plant nursery, Native Plants Unlimited. Here is a list of shade of herbaceous shade plants and shrubs to help you get started! Plants for shade:
Shrubs for shade:
By Claire Lane
The Hamilton SWCD and Hamilton County Invasives Partnership are proud to announce the launch of a new Callery Pear Removal Cost Share Program, aimed at assisting homeowners in the removal of landscape Callery pear trees from their properties. This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to combat the spread of invasive species and promote the health and biodiversity of our local ecosystems. The Callery pear tree, with varieties commonly known as the Bradford, Aristocrat, Cleveland and others, has become a significant environmental concern due to its ability to escape cultivation and spread rapidly along tree lines, roadsides, and through woodlands. In response to this issue, Hamilton SWCD is offering a cost-sharing program to incentivize homeowners to remove these trees from their landscapes. Under the program, homeowners can receive reimbursement for half of the cost of removing landscape Callery pear trees from their property, up to a maximum of $400. This financial assistance aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with tree removal while encouraging proactive steps towards environmental stewardship. Additionally, three local tree companies are partnering with the SWCD to offer discounted rates on Callery pear removal. By utilizing the services of Nature’s Canopy, Climbing High Tree Service, or Engledow Tree Experts, participants can stretch their grant dollars even further. To participate in the program, homeowners must apply prior to having trees removed. Reimbursements will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available funding. This program can be utilized in conjunction with the district’s Native for Invasive Trade In Program which makes free native trees and shrubs available after the removal of invasive species. The SWCD is also offering financial assistance for larger scale invasive species removal and restoration projects. Funding is made available through a Clean Water Indiana grant. For more information about the invasive species removal programs and to apply visit www.hamiltonswcd.org or contact 317.773.2181. ![]() By Taylor Wilson The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District held their Annual Meeting on February 8th at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds. Highlights from the District’s 2023 work were shared by David Bradway, Conservation Administrator. The SWCD recognized Karen La Mere with the outstanding Natural Resources Educator Award for her work with the Indiana Master Naturalist Program. Westfield Green Together was recognized with the Outstanding Commitment to Conservation and Community Award for their dedication to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and the improvement of sustainability and natural habitats in the Westfield community. A special recognition was also given to Warren Sarber for his participation on the SWCD Board for the past 14 years. Brian Cunningham with Wild Birds Unlimited gave a presentation on how to build backyard bird habitat. Rodney Rulon, longtime SWCD Board of Supervisors member, was re-elected to the SWCD Board of Supervisors and sworn in at the SWCD board meeting by Sue Maki, County Council Member. The purpose of a Soil and Water Conservation District, or SWCD, is to provide information about soil, water, and related natural resource conservation; identify and prioritize local soil and water resource concerns; and connect land users to sources of education, technical, and financial assistance to implement conservation practices and technologies. To stay updated on the latest programs and events, visit www.hamiltonswcd.org. By Dave Bradway
The City of Noblesville is modifying Pleasant Street to allow for city growth and to improve mobility in the future. This project includes new roundabouts, widening of streets, building and tree removal, and bridge construction. Here are 5 things to know about the project: Timeline Construction on Phase 1 began in Fall of 2022 with the construction of a new bridge over White River. While the bridge has not yet opened, 2 new roundabouts on 8th Street are open and in use. Phases 2 and 3 began in early 2024 with the anticipation of completion in 2025. Closings Various street closings will be in effect for the area surrounding Pleasant Street. Since these closings will be based on the construction work, up to date info can be found in the E-Newsletters published on the project website: reimaginepleasantst.com/media New Locations for Area Offices Building removal and business relocations will be involved with the widening of Pleasant Street. You may have already noticed the demolition of the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW), O.V. Winks, and Annex buildings. The SWCD and Weights and Measures Building will also be demolished in the near future. New office spaces for HHW, Weights and Measures, and the SWCD are being constructed in the building that formerly housed the Hamilton County Humane Society. The building is anticipated to be ready in early 2025. Keep a look out for updates about our new offices on our social media and newsletter. Coincide with Fairgrounds Project Another big project, expansion and improvement of the 4-H Fairgrounds, will ensue at the same time as the Pleasant Street Project. This will create traffic slowdowns and detours to occur. Please be patient, take your time, and give workers plenty of space. Where to Find More Info To find out more about the Pleasant Street Project, please visit reimaginepleasantst.com for the most up-to-date info on traffic pattern changes, detours, and overall progress of the project. Written by Jacob Luken Why is Poison Hemlock Important? Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum) is a particularly harmful noxious weed belonging to the carrot family that shades out native plants, chemically alters the soil, and is notoriously toxic to humans and livestock.
Native Look-Alikes As a member of the carrot family, Poison Hemlock bears a strong resemblance to other native or common species in Indiana such as Queen Anne’s Lace, Purple-Stemmed Angelica, and Spotted Water Hemlock. Read more here to learn more about how to identify, remove, and protect yourself from Poison Hemlock. If you are a Hamilton County Resident and have more questions or are unsure if you have Poison Hemlock on your property, call or email our office to receive our free technical services.
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