Impact of the invasive shrub spread on spring vetch (Vicia lathyroides l.) in Palanga park

Abstract

This paper examined spring vetch condition and the spread of invasive shrub. Spring vetch is very rare in Lithuania and is listed in Red Book. He grows in sandy forest site near the Baltic Sea. In the same forest site was planted some invasive bush species that can capture spring vetch growing area. The aim of the study is to determine impact of invasive shrub spread on protected spring vetch. We found three habitats of Vicia lathyroides L. in Palanga Botanical Park. To the comparison of the old survey, spring vetch was detected in three new places. Abundant spring vetch cover, flowers and pods appeared in such conditions of adequate lighting, absence of walk trails/walking paths. According to the results most intensive spread of root suckers were of Sorbaria sorbifolia (L.) A. Braun, Sarothamnus scoparius (L.) W. D. J. Koch, Symphoricarpos albus (L.) S. F. Blake, Spiraea chamaedryfolia (L.), which occur every year. Root suckers of Sarothamnus scoparius (L.) W. D. J. Koch and Cotoneaster lucidus Schltdl. in the near future can reach the spring vetch growing areas.