Vegetation covering walls as a means to combat invasive plant species

The city is currently grappling with an invasive plant species known as Bindweed (Fallopia spp.), which has been causing significant damage to the city's walls and native plant life. In an effort to control this rapid-spreading plant, a special weed barrier has been introduced on certain sections of the city walls.

However, the city's efforts to control the Bindweed are being undermined by the deliberate removal of this barrier by some citizens. In 2017, researchers intentionally removed the barrier to observe the effects on bindweed root spread and associated restoration costs. The results were clear: the removal of the barrier not only leads to extra work and costs but also allows the Bindweed to spread again.

The city is urging all citizens to leave the barrier undisturbed. Leaving the barrier in place can help strengthen native plant life and deprive the Bindweed of both light and nutrients. The special weed barrier is laid without the use of chemicals, making it an eco-friendly solution to the Bindweed problem.

The barrier's effectiveness in controlling the Bindweed is threatened by its removal. The Bindweed, which displaces native species and damages soil, continues to spread when the barrier is removed. The city is appealing to citizens for cooperation in maintaining the barrier to ensure the long-term health of the city's walls and native plant life.

Despite these challenges, the city remains committed to finding solutions to control the Bindweed. The special weed barrier has proven to be effective in controlling the Bindweed, and the city is confident that with the cooperation of its citizens, the Bindweed problem can be managed effectively.