Get Invasive Plants Out of Your Yard and Garden
Do you have invasive plants growing in your yard or garden? If you do, you will do America a big favor by getting rid of them!
An invasive plant species is one that has been introduced to the United States, either on purpose or accidentally, and has essentially grown out of control, pushing native species out. They range from pampas grass and bamboo to buckthorn and purple loosestrife, and they are devouring the countryside in many areas. Garlic mustard, for example, was originally brought to American shores from Europe for its supposed medicinal purposes in the 1800s. Today, it has overtaken woodlands, forcing out native growth, and is considered a major hazard to our forests throughout the East and Midwest.
Invasive plant growth has gotten so bad in some areas that many scientists consider it to be one of the main threats to the Earth's native plant life. The USDA, along with many ecological groups, is calling on everyone to help stamp them out.
What can you do? First, identify any invasive plants on your property. A good place to learn more is at www.weedcenter.org/inv_plant_info. Dig or pull them out by the roots, if possible. Second, be sure you don't buy them - several species are available at garden centers, including the popular Japanese barberry and Norway maple. Ask your garden center staff if a plant is invasive before making a purchase. Another good local resource for information is your county agricultural extension agency.
Another good way to avoid invasive plants in your yard is to select native plants in the first place. By planting native trees, bushes and flowers, you will help assure that invasives don't barge in, while at the same time know you will be growing plants that will thrive in your area.
