In the past few weeks I have heard more and more about wild chervil and how it is an invasive plant species in the Central Vermont area.

I did some research and found exactly what it is, where it has come from, and what we as Vermonters can do about it. For most of us when we hear about a new invasive plant in the area we don't think to much about it but there are a vast array of people that invasive plants can cause harm to be it property, livestock, or even humans.

Wild Chervil though relatively new to our area has been spreading like a wild fire. Here is what you can do if you have this invasive plant in your very own backyards.

Note: There is no know way to completely eradicate this plant species once it is established in an area but once you are able to identify it, there are ways you can help stop its spread.

Wild chervil is very similar to Queen Anne's Lace though it blooms from mid - May through mid - June whereas Queen Anne's Lace blooms late in July and August. It grows to a height of around 3 - 4 feet though it has been known to grow to upwards of 6 - 7 feet in height. Its leaves are triangular in shape and when in flower it is domed not flat like the Queen Anne's Lace. It grows best in moist areas such as in ditches and along road sides or even property lines. In fact as it stands there is not many places that this invasive plant will not grow.

There are many ways it is spread such as by mowing after it has set. If you have wild chervil on your property mow before the plant blooms or DO NOT mow at all. This plant is known to have hundreds of seeds that can be spread via your mowing. It can be spread by vehicles in their tire tread and by animals ( It is reported however that grazing animals have curbed the spread of this plant ) This species is also spread by birds who eat the plants seeds and flowers.

Wild Chervil serves as a host to Yellow Fleck Virus which infects carrots, celery, and parsnips so if you are growing any of these vegetables please be aware.

Wild Chervil also will cause molding if it is in pastures that are harvested during forage.

Wild Chervil is not easily removed but if you can spot it after the snow melts and before it blooms you can weed it out and help stop its invasive and rooted hold on Central Vermont.