Riesenbärenklau (Bekämpfung)

Source: Editorial staff of the City of Kiel (individual service of the City of Kiel)

The giant hogweed poses a problem for nature conservation, because it displaces more and more native plant species and the animal species that live on them. The giant hogweed is not native to our region and has some differences compared to native plant species that make it very competitive.

In Kiel, the giant hogweed has been fought for years. The most effective way to cut off the top layer of the rootstock was in autumn or early spring (no later than the end of April). It is important to cut the compact vegetation cone, but other forms of control are also possible.

Since the juice of giant hogweed contains toxic substances (furanocoumarins) which, when in contact with the skin under the influence of the sun, have phototoxic effects, which - similar to sunburn - are manifested by redness of the skin, swelling, blistering and skin discoloration, the corresponding work must be carried out with due caution. Arms, legs and hands should be covered (long-sleeved sweatshirt/long pants/gloves). In case of skin contact with the juice of the plant, it is recommended to wash it off immediately.

The Environmental Protection Agency is happy about any support, i.e. actively through the fight against the giant hogweed or passively by notifying identified locations in the Kiel city area. Outside the Kiel city area, please contact the responsible municipal administration.