Invasive Species 

       Himalayan Balsam

 Himalayan balsam (Impatiens Glandulifera), also known as poor man’s orchid, policeman’s helmet, and touch-me-not, is on the prohibited noxious weed list in Alberta and must be destroyed by anyone growing it. If this plant is in your garden, please remove it immediately. To further prevent the spread, do not share seed or plants with other gardeners.

 This fast-growing annual plant has showy, irregular, pink-purple-white flowers with five petals. It grows 1-3 metres tall and has large oblong leaves with serrated edges, oppositely arranged on smooth, hollow, 4-sided stems. Roots are shallow and fibrous. Seed pods explode when ripe and can shoot seeds up to 10m. For more on this and other noxious weeds, go to the Alberta Invasive Species Council.

           website, at https://abinvasives.ca/invasive-plants/

Black Knot

Black knot is a common fungal disease that affects trees in the cherry and plum family. It appears as hard, black, swollen growths (or “knots”) along branches and twigs, which can eventually girdle and kill affected limbs if left untreated. The disease spreads through spores, especially during wet spring weather, making early detection and management important.

To help prevent the spread, regularly inspect trees and prune out infected branches at least 15–20 cm below the visible knot, disposing of the cut material promptly. Avoid composting infected wood, as the fungus can continue to spread. Maintaining overall tree health through proper watering and care can also improve resistance. Keeping an eye out for black knot and taking action early can help protect both individual trees and the surrounding landscape.