Correct identification of the plants of concern would be the first step. Once you know exactly what they are, then it is easy to research ways of eliminating them. Depending on the plant, that could be quick and easy or more of a prolonged and repetitive approach. But you need to know what you are dealing with first.

Try posting on the Name That Plant forum for correct identification.

Mow, mow, mow!

Thank you for the advice. I will take some photos to use for identification of the plants. Guess mowing them into submission is not as bad as chemical treatment and re-seeding, etc.

There is at least one award winning landscape architect in my part of the world who will look you straight in the eye, and tell you, while believing what is being said, that if you stop mowing, beautiful wildflowers and only beautiful wildflowers will appear, that weedy plants aren't really an issue.

First, you have to identify the scope of the problem. Then, match your tools adequately. If you need a brush hog, you really don't want to be using a weed eater (don't laugh...I have a neighbor right now who is doing just that).

Every possible tool has a specific set of advantages and disadvantages. You'll see what works adequately for you. My experience has been, don't limit yourself. Sometimes, you spray. Sometimes, you mow. Sometimes, you let goats mow...or pigs...or geese. Sometimes, you pull.

My guess? you'll become more protective of the open spaces because of birds and less worried about brush. it's easy to walk a mowed path...you don't even have to mow the entire thing, just a few paths...and dogs tend to go where their noses lead them. However, those wide open vistas will bring you closer to a range of birds that just don't like crowded spaces.

but let your own preferences lead you. For some, less is more. for others, more is less.

WayneD, great reply. I harbor no illusions that this will be an easy fix. I remember an article a couple of years ago on Houzz about mowing paths in fields - good concept - will have to keep that in mind. Goats as mowers has gained popularity and that is another good idea. My husband is a big believer in the right tool for the job so he has already been thinking about what we'll need - tractor or large commercial mower.

Prickly shrubs aside, I just wanted to say how pretty it is!

nanj,

I just signed up right now so I could post this article which I literally just finished reading.

The reason is because I manage 2 college campuses that total 350 acres in Alberta Canada, and for the last 3 years I've been attempting to train my 'old school' staff members who believe that if there is an open field, that it must be mowed.

I'm in the process of creating 'Garden Meadows' and naturalizing some areas of our campuses. I'm doing this to create more biodiversity and increase the amount of birds and wildlife that visits our campus.

I also believe the more relaxed atmosphere is a healthier learning and living environment for our students.

Please listen to or read this article. It answers your question extremely well.

http://awaytogarden.com/making-meadows-longwood-gardens-tom-brightman/

Enjoy!

Jared

atmoscat - Thank you! We think SC is lovely.

Jared - How kind of you to sign up in order to be able to share this with me! This is exactly what I was hoping to find. I am supposed to be working right now :-) but wanted to say thank you before the day gets away from me. I look forward to reading the article and listening to the podcast.

What an ambitious and admirable project you are involved in. If you have pictures, please share!