Invasive Plants in the Landscape
Addressing the Supply – Demand Factor
While most plants used in gardens and landscaping do not invade wild areas, the species that do escape cause serious problems. They displace native plants and wildlife, damaging foodwebs.
Stopping the spread of invasive plants begins with prevention. If we don’t plant invasive species, they won’t spread!
Go Native!
The Strike Team has put together a Do Not Plant List of invasive species, by common name and by species name, that should not be planted. Instead, landowners can choose from thousands of gorgeous non-invasive plants to meet any gardening needs! The Native Plant Society of New Jersey and Jersey-Friendly Yards has resources on how to find the perfect match for your landscape without sacrificing bright color, good shape or hardiness. You can also always inquire at your local plant nursery for advise on non-invasive & native plants that will flourish in your garden. Show your support in preserving native landscapes and purchasing native plants and NOT invasive plants by signing the Landscape Planting Pledge.
For Hopewell Valley Residents
Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Spaces (FoHVOS) has established the Residential Community Conservation program, open to all homeowners, farmers, and businesses within the Hopewell Valley that wish to steward their properties and support native biodiversity. Along with an ecological stewardship consultation, Community Conservation members can purchase native plants from local nurseries every spring and fall at the Native Plant Sale. Become a member and sign up today!
Invasive Plants & Wild Food Recipes
What to do with invasive plants removed from your yard? Eat them! We have compiled a list of invasive species and wild food recipes. Please remember to only consume plants if you have confirmed the ID and confirmed that no herbicides or pesticides have been sprayed.
You can also learn more about connecting nature and food at meadows and more.
See author and forager Tama Matsuoka Wong’s presentation from our 2024 Strike Team Conference about edible invasive plants and how to garden like a forager!
Project Spotlight: Jersey Plant Pledge
In 2016, the New Jersey Audubon teamed up with the Strike Team to create the Jersey Plant Pledge, a program through which nursery professionals can receive recognition and other benefits by voluntarily reducing the number of invasive plant species offered to customers. The first Plant Pledge Class included 11 nurseries across the state that pledged to promote the sale of native plants while reducing their inventory of invasive species. Read more about the project, and how nursery professionals can help New Jersey Go Native!