Dispose of Invasive Species with Flowers or Seeds Safely:
as Trash for the Landfill, not Yard Waste!
-shared by Leslie Kuhn

Invasive species that are in bloom or going to seed should not be disposed of as yard waste. That is because plants like garlic mustard and dame’s rocket will continue to produce mature seed even once they’re pulled. The composting temperature for yard waste is not high enough to kill their seeds. Compost created from your yard waste containing these plants will just spread these pests to the gardens of those who later use the compost.

Michigan law was therefore modified a few years ago to support the disposal of bagged invasive plant waste in the landfill, rather than in yard waste. (See the law below.) Put sealed (tied or knotted) plastic bags containing flowering/seed-bearing invasive plant waste in your trash bin for pick-up or in the trash compactor at the Meridian Recycling/Transfer Station. Disposal of garlic mustard and dame’s rocket in the yard waste area of the Meridian Recycling Center has already resulted in the spread of these two highly invasive species through acres of surrounding woods and grasslands (a problem we will work to reverse!), and the seeds from that area can readily be transported along roadsides via car tires and people’s shoes, too.

Thanks for helping keep our gardens and natural areas free from invasive species!


http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-324-11521  (link to Michigan Compiled Law)
 

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