Rhododendron on the way out at Torridon

Deciduous bushes in winter? No, rhododendron killed by stem injection. For the last few years, the National Trust for Scotland have been working towards eradicating Rhododendron ponticum at their Inverewe and Torridon properties in Wester Ross.

Stephen Mason kindly showed me the results of the stem injection treatments at Torridon.

A leafless rhododendron stand, 12 months after treatment.

Every stem must be injected. Any missed will survive. With the higher light levels, mosses are already moving in.

Inevitably, a few stems are missed, especially where they have layered, as here.

The dead stems have been removed, and the ground has started re-vegetating.

Rhododendron control

Rob Dewar of National Trust for Scotland demonstrates stem injection of R. ponticum. This is a quick, environmentally benign method of killing rhododendron.
This was demonstrated last week during a workshop on rhododendron control at Kinloch Hourn. Thanks to all the 'rhoddy experts' who contributed, and the Estate, who provided material to practice on.

The "lever-and-mulch" technique uses hand-tools, and no chemicals.

Rhododendron survey

An initial survey of Rhododendron ponticum along Loch Hourn - a lot easier by boat!