Native Wildflower or Invasive Pest?

Ask Cat | Monday February 23 2009 5:51 pm | Comments (0)

It is extremely important to research any plant,edible or not, that you are considering putting into your landscape.  Many plants found labeled as  “native plants ” or wildflowers for your area may in fact be considered an invasive pest.  How would you find out?  Research.  Governmental agencies and universities have databases that you can consult.  Check your State and local agencies for invasive lists pertinent to the area in which you live.

The following list are ones that I have located:

http://www.invasivespecies.net/

This is a Global Invasive Database on all Species: plants, animals, insects etc..

http://plants.usda.gov/java/noxComposite

Has list of  State noxious weeds

http://www.invasive.org/

Has invasive and exotic weed list

Please search for your local Country, State, County, etc.. lists to prevent introducing a plant that is considered a noxious weed in your area. Native flora populations are put at great risk when a vigorous introduction out competes them for light, nutrients and space.

An excellent example of this is Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)-it is an edible plant but it is so aggressive in its growing habit that is totally takes over an area and no local flora can repopulate and survive its onslaught. A very serious invasive pest indeed. Please take the time to protect your local environments from plants that become noxious weeds. Watch the following video: http://www.sustainablegardeningblog.com/archives/1586

I was researching a site and the list of plants considered invasive pests were ones they stated were native to the State! A good example of the importance of checking local area lists.

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