Help us Bash Balsam out of the Dee valley.

Bash the Balsam.

  • Spot it.

    Himalayan Balsam becomes visible in May or early June depending on growth conditions. The vibrant pink flower is pretty unmistakable and it tends to grow in hordes. Have a look at the picture below and save it in your photos or download a plant ID app.

  • Rip It.

    Thankfully Balsam weed is easy to get rid off. Simply pull it from the base of the stem and the roots should come with. Alternatively you can cut at the base if you have access to a strimmer.

  • Kill It.

    Once you’ve picked it you need to make sure it's dead, if left as it is it can reroot. The most efficient way to destroy it is to pile it up and jump up and down on it. It's pretty simple stuff!

Want to know more?

Balsam weed was first introduced into the UK in 1839 and after being sewed around many gardens eventually made its way to our river banks.

Each plant can produce up to 800 seeds that are dispersed up to 7 metres. 

Impact

Balsam grows in large groups and chokes our native plants. It is also nectar rich which sounds great for the bees however it is at the detriment to native plants and it has a short window for pollination.

They're not just bad for wildlife, due to their very shallow root system they leave the river bank susceptible to erosion once they have died back. 

Control

Late May to early July is the best time to go balsam bashing. 

They are generally super easy to pull out and can also be cut as long as you cut them low to the ground. 

Our goal is to eradicate Balsam Weed by 2029, a tall order, so we need your help. We are currently working with AONB and the Wildlife trust to organise access for balsam bashing above and below Llangollen.