Fact: many invasive non-native species can be found in our gardens, seemingly innocuous until they begin to spread to nearby natural areas and take over.
If you are an avid gardener, you may know every plant on your property - but if not, chances are you are harbouring fugitives. These pesky little plants can seem like a godsend, flourishing in places no other plants will grow, but that should be setting off the alarm bells in your head.
Have you ever tried to eradicate goutweed from your yard without pesticides? It may seem like a good groundcover, but it can quickly conquer every inch of space you have. Skip the harsh chemicals and remove it to the root by hand before the variegated white leaves go completely green. And keep in mind that it can easily spread from yard to yard, so be a good neighbour by removing it from your own yard, and help others identify it in theirs.
Common buckthorn is another one that tends to fly under the radar unless you know what it looks like. It spreads through the forest understory wiping out seedlings, saplings, and any natural wildflower until nothing else is left. This species was introduced by the government as a hedgerow, but farmers quickly realized how aggressive it really was. Again, when removing these guys, be careful to get absolutely all of the roots, or you will likely have a fresh batch spring up the following year!
How do we stop these species from taking over? Learn what they look like and tell your neighbours. Remove them from your garden and then plant native species instead!
The Ontario Invasive Plant Council put out a great informational brochure called the “Grow Me Instead Guide,” listing the most common invasive plants found in gardens and the species that can replace them (they include native species and other non-invasive substitutes). The brochure also provides great information on how to remove the invasive species you may already have present in your garden.
They say the best defense is a good offense – and in gardening it is no different. For example, you can remove goutweed and replace it with some wild strawberry! It may not save the planet, but it may save the ecological integrity of a nearby meadow or stream. Are there any invasive plants that you struggle with?