INVASIVE  PLANTS

Springtime in Vermont can get us excited about gardening but there's a long time between early March and planting time. Those "late" snowstorms that drop several inches of snow and mess up special events such as your favorite flower show come without notice but often leave in days, not weeks. This time of year when there is still lots of snow on the ground--almost 3 feet here where I live--makes it a great time to think about gardening related topics such as invasives. 

Invasive plants and insects can have a big impact on our gardens no matter how big or small they grow to. I have written about invasive insects which have made surprising appearances as climates have shown a warming trending. In addition to new insects there are also new plants known to be very invasive. If you live near a stream or river that floods, or live along a major highway such as US Route 2 where Vermont Flower Farm is located, there is no doubt that you have noticed new plants growing in and around your gardens. If you see any, remove them quickly as invasives are multipliers.

Here are some links that will help you learn more about invasives. Remember that some make poison ivy look like a piece of cake. Learn plants before touching them. Plants such as Giant Hogweed can create giant medical problems for a long time. Read on.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heracleum_mantegazzianum

Invasive-Plant-Species-Voluntary-Codes-of-Conduct-2002.pdf

Responsible Use of Non-native Plants in Our Garden Designs | Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Maine Natural Areas Program, Invasive Plants

nh-invasive-plant-list.pdf