If you have a green thumb and enjoy spending time outside, you’ve probably wondered, what you could plant that would make your yard unique.
While adding unique plant life to your yard is a fantastic idea, not all plants that you think are unique and beautiful are good to plant in your yard. While unique, they can end up destroying your yard and home.
When it comes to new plants and invasive garden plants in general, there are a number of plants that are considered to be bad. Here is a list of nine invasive plants that you need to be aware of before you plant your garden this season.
1. Japanese Honeysuckle
Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) is an invasive plant that spreads quickly and can choke out other plants in the garden. This vine can easily escape gardens and spread into natural areas, where it can displace native plants and disrupt wildlife habitats.
2. Giant Hogweed
While giant hogweed may look like a striking and impressive plant, it is an invasive species that can cause harm to both humans and the environment. The plant’s sap can cause severe burns and blistering if it comes into contact with skin, and the plant itself can crowd out native vegetation.
3. Himalayan Balsam
Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is an invasive plant that can crowd out native plants and disrupt natural ecosystems. It is a summer annual that reproduces by releasing seeds that can travel long distances.
4. Poison Ivy
This fast-growing vine can quickly overrun a garden, smothering other plants and causing problems for gardeners trying to keep their yards tidy. Poison ivy is also a health hazard, as its leaves can cause severe skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
5. Cleavers
The plant grows to about two feet tall and has long, narrow leaves. The plant spreads rapidly by seed and can quickly become a nuisance in the garden.
6. Creeping Charlie
This plant can easily take over gardens, lawns, and cracks in sidewalks and patios. Once it’s established, it’s very difficult to get rid of.
7. Dandelion
The dandelion is an invasive garden plant that can easily take over your healthy garden. It has a deep taproot that allows it to compete with other plants for water and nutrients, and its leaves can crowd out other plants. Dandelion also produces a lot of pollen, which can be a problem for people with allergies.
8. Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing, invasive plant that can quickly take over your garden and yard. If you’re not careful, it can take over your garden, crowding out other plants. Bamboo removal services can help you get rid of it, but it’s best to avoid using bamboo in the first place.
There are plenty of other plants you can use that won’t take over your yard.
9. Lambs Quarters
It is a common weed in gardens and fields and can be a serious agricultural pest. It can also be invasive, crowding out other plants and causing problems in the garden.
Being Mindful About These Invasive Garden Plants
Invasive garden plants can wreak havoc on local ecosystems. They can crowd out native plants, change the structure of the soil, and disturb the natural balance of an area. By being mindful of which plants are invasive, we can help protect our local ecosystems.
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