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GoatScaper Farm animals and invasive plants


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  • 2. Invasive super plant, Japanese Knotweed

    03:03
    Welcome to our podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of plants and their impact on our environment. Today, we're exploring one of the most unique and aggressive invasive plant species in North America - Japanese Knotweed. Our guest expert, Liberty, joins us to discuss the physical characteristics, history, and impact of this destructive invasive species. From its bamboo-like stems and dark green leaves to its ability to break through concrete and infiltrate building foundations, Japanese Knotweed is a force to be reckoned with. Learn about its origins in Asia and how it was brought to North America for ornamental purposes, as well as its fast growth and dense stands that make it nearly impossible to control. Discover the environmental consequences of Japanese Knotweed and what steps you can take to prevent its spread. Join us next time as we continue to explore the world of plants. Thank you for listening

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  • 1. Toxic plants with Dr King

    07:26
    This interview is with Dr. Erin King, a veterinarian from Tufts University's Ambulatory Service. She is discussing the topic of plant poisoning, which is a common problem for goats and other farm animals, especially during the spring and summer grazing season. Dr. King explains that the most notorious plants for causing toxicities in goats are those in the azalea family, such as azaleas, mountain morals, and rhododendrons. She also mentions pokeweed as another common toxin found in the northeast. Dr. King talks about how goats will sometimes eat toxic plants when they don't have many other options for grazing. She also mentions that different types of plant poisoning exist, such as those caused by the azalea family, which can cause both gastrointestinal and cardiac signs and can be toxic with just a small amount of the plant ingested.