Many of our yards are playing host to garlic mustard, an invasive species which disrupts Wind Point’s ecosystems. The DNR advises hand-pulling at or before the onset of flowering, or cutting the flower stalk as close to the soil as possible just as flowering begins. You may also try to control infestations with a 1-2% active ingredient solution of glyphosate, but beware – it will kill other plants, too.
To dispose garlic mustard, place the plants in their own separate garbage bags. Label the bags “garlic mustard” and place them in the regular garbage cart. If you have more bags than the cart can fit, you can set them out during a bulk collection day on the first Monday of the month or arrange a special pickup with Johns Disposal for a fee. Certainly this time of the year yard work may seem endless, but your diligence will be greatly appreciated by your neighbors–and you could be rewarded with the sight of more beautiful Wisconsin wildflowers!