30 March

Much of the seasonal growth in the Nature Park is still in its early stages. Optimally, invasives can be spotted and removed at this stage, but the identity of some of these plant species will be more evident as the year progresses.

INVASIVES

When identified, these should be removed, and placed in a receptacle or bin where they cannot re-establish themselves. Typically, in the Seaside Nature Park, there has been a truck in the back of which they can be placed.

a very early growth--identification pending.

Hairy bittercress. Invasive that should be removed soon. It blooms early in the season, and spreads zillions of seeds.

Bicknell's geranium?

Bedstraw, or cleavers. This grows to a large size, with, as the name suggests, the ability to cling to clothing or fur. It can spread widely. At present, it's small, and not widely distributed in the site.

Early growth of vetch. There isn't much of it evident at this point in the season, but it is very invasive and will spread abundantly. It definitely should be removed. (In fact, it's sold as "ground cover" in nurseries.) The shrub to the right of the photo with the red stem is kinnickkinnick, a native woody plant. It's been planted as part of the native growth here in the park.

Creeping buttercup. Spreads vigorously. Remove.

Dandelion--abundant and invasive. Best removed before it blooms and seeds, it has a long taproot that should be removed, as the plant will sprout from the root.

Broad-leaved dock? Introduced invasive. Has a deep taproot that should be removed.

Early growth of equisetum (horsetail). Native, but spreads vigorously. Should be removed, although it's very persistent. When possible, at least remove the seed-bearing heads.

Prickly lettuce. Has a deep taproot and can spread vigorously.

NATIVE VEGETATION

Once identified, these should be allowed to establish and grow.

Nodding onion--one of two species of onion growing in this site. It's easily distinguished by a definite onion aroma. It isn't invasive and shouldn't be removed.

Sea blush. Will produce pinkish clusters of flowers. Native, and pretty. Don't remove!

Beach lupine. Native, non-invasive. Will bloom later in the season.

Yarrow. Not invasive, although this has been introduced in the park. It will have pink or white clusters of flowers later in the season, and should be left to grow.