Biological control of non-native plant species

In Finland, cultivating alien invasive plant species is forbidden. Furthermore, the spreading of these species should be restricted and established plants destroyed. However, currently we do not have efficient control methods to prevent the growth of these species.

In this research project, we aim to find a solution to control for three woody alien invasive plant species, namely Rosa rugosa, Sorbaria sorbifolia and Spiraea alba. As a control method we will use a decay fungus Chondrostereum purpureum. We will investigate the effects of the fungus on these invasive alien species by treating the target plants in spring, summer and autumn to find out an optimal treatment time for these species. In addition, we aim to find out whether the size of a shrub has an effect on the ability of C. purpureum to prevent the growth of these alien invasive species.

The study will produce information on the ability of the biocontrol method in preventing the growth of woody alien invasive species. If the method is efficient, it may help in controlling woody invasive plant species in the future.