Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Spring Foliage

Photo of Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)

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Taken on Mar. 20, 2019

This photo shows the spring basal foliage of garlic mustard; this plant is a biennial, and typically overwinters as a basal rosette, which grows lusher in late winter and early spring before bolting to flower and seed.

Where it is invasive, late winter and early spring is a key time for controlling plants. Uprooting it is often sufficient to kill plants, especially in dry weather. Plants can then be left to die in place, minimizing the risk of spreading it to new areas.