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Commission finds non-native lupins in town pollinator seed mix; schedules inspection and photos
Summary
The commission reported that seed used at a town pollinator garden appears to contain a non-native/western lupin variety; members plan a site visit to photograph plants, consult experts and, if needed, remove seed heads or plants before they set seed; vendor identified as Vermont Wild.
Commissioners reviewing the town pollinator garden said seedlings and flowers raised concern that the seed mix included a non-native/western lupin rather than the expected local species. One speaker said the seed source was Vermont Wild and that photos should be sent to the vendor and to local invasive-species staff for verification.
"It was Vermont Wild," a commissioner said when the vendor was identified. Members planned a Friday site visit to document the plants and obtain clearer photos and to determine whether to remove seed heads or plants before they set seed. An intern will assist with the inspection.
Speakers flagged two practical concerns: (1) visually striking lupins can attract public interest that could encourage further spread, and (2) some lupins spread by rhizome as well as seed, increasing management difficulty. Commissioners planned to photograph the plants, consult state invasive-species staff or natural-areas experts, and then decide whether to remove plants or collect seed heads prior to seed set.
The commission said it will contact vendor representatives and relevant state staff for confirmation and next steps; any required removal or remediation will be handled as a town conservation-maintenance task or volunteer action depending on the outcome of expert review.
