Hitch 6

Chapter 6: Congaree

Mass Wisteria

This week the crew was back at Congaree, but this time they were faced by a new nemesis that goes by the name of Chinese Wisteria. Luckily, they were joined by an old friend from training who goes by the name of Brian Doughty. Their efforts were divided between two sites that were once residential properties, and all that remained were old wells and scattered bricks, as well as a cacophony of invasive plant growth. The first site was located next to a railroad track and time was spent retreating what had previously been cut stumped and foliar sprayed in the past. The residents had allegedly planted Chinese privet, multiflora roses, and last but not least, Chinese wisteria. Time was spent on all of these plants but the biggest foe was Chinese wisteria. The next site had Chinese privet and chinaberry, but once again, most efforts were concentrated on Chinese wisteria. This site was much more over-run by the Chinese wisteria than the first, and the vines grew thick and high into the canopy. Despite the daunting task they were initially faced with, they were able to greatly reduce the number of large vines by using the cut stump method as well as foliar spraying saplings that were surrounding the infestation. The crew also successfully completed their midseason project, which was a volunteer day at Congaree spent pulling Japanese stilt grass and beefsteak. Over twenty people showed up to help out, including an enthusiastic boy scout troop, and a great time was had by all.