We’re Being Invaded!

Disguised as grasses or trees, certain nonnative plants are threatening our beautiful Sonoran desert vegetation. You may be aware that Buffelgrass poses a threat, but do you know that Fountain Grass, often used as an ornamental plant in landscaping, is just as dangerous? Both grasses spread aggressively by seed and can grow in dense stands. Left uncontrolled, these grasses introduced from Africa will irrevocably alter the Sonoran desert by crowding out our native plants and fueling frequent and hot fires that can kill saguaros and other native vegetation. Unfortunately, Fountain Grass has established a foothold in SMVE and surrounding roads and washes. One need only drive westbound along Territory or Sunrise Drive to see lots of Fountain Grass. SMVE’s Board is aware of the problem and is taking steps to eliminate non-native grasses from our community. But we all need to be vigilant because seeds may live in the soil for many years and wind-blown seeds may re-infest areas cleared. You can help by removing Fountain Grass from your yard and educating your landscaper not to plant non-native grasses anywhere. Seeking attractive, native non-invasive grasses? Try planting Bull Grass, Deer Grass, Arizona Cotton Top, or Bamboo Muhly.

Not sure if you have Fountain Grass or how to remove it? Call Pam Negri. For more information on Fountain Grass, go to http://www.nps.gov/sagu/naturescience/fountain-grass.htm or http://www.desertmuseum.org/invaders/invaders_fountaingrass.php. For comprehensive information on buffelgrass, see http://www.buffelgrass.org.

Certain non-native trees, such as Russian Olive and African Sumac, also pose threats. African Sumac, an easy to grow and quite attractive tree, produces abundant seeds that are spread by birds. It escapes into washes where it displaces native trees such as acacias. Also some people are highly allergic to its pollen. Several of these trees were planted years ago in SMVE common areas around the north pool and on Largo Salici before the threat was recognized. They are also in some homeowners’ yards. Please make sure that your landscaper does not plant African Sumac and remove any uninvited trees that sprout in your yard.

Is a Shade Tree in your Future?

If you are considering planting a tree for shade near your home or replacing an older tree, Tucson Electric Power’s “Trees for Tucson” has a deal for you. Through this program, owners of homes built after 1980 can purchase two trees a year for $8 each. The only caveat is that you plant the trees within 15 feet of your home on its east, west, or south side to help cut energy costs. Trees will be delivered to your home for free within several weeks, although you’ll need to arrange for planting. Tree choices depend on availability of local nursery stock, so it can vary. Currently available are: Desert Willow, Blue Palo Verde, Red Push Pistache and Fan Tex Ash. It’s easy to order trees online or by phone. Go to https://tucsoncleanandbeautiful.org/trees-for-tucson/low-cost-shade-trees/home-shade-trees-tep-customers/ or call (520) 791-3109.

✉ by Pam Negri
Phone:

Ref: Fall 2014 SMVE Newsletter

Photo from National Park Service