Beware of Backyard Invaders

[Staff]

Beware of Backyard Invaders
The Nature Conservancy urges gardeners to help stop the spread of America’s worst weeds

The Nature Conservancy in Maine - Beware of Backyard Invaders
excerpts from above:

Plants such as purple loosestrife, kudzu, giant salvinia, multiflora rose and tree of heaven have been used widely in horticulture and landscaping, and can be found in backyards and business lots across the country. At first glance these plants may look pretty, but their beauty is deceptive.

Known as invasive species, plants like these are typically transplants from distant places. Once free from the natural checks and balances in their native habitats, these alien invaders establish themselves in new areas and quickly spread out of control. They hoard light, water and nutrients, and can alter entire ecosystems by changing soil chemistry.

With intentional and unintentional assistance from people, these problematic plants are spreading at an alarming rate, infecting natural areas across the United States.

[TheLorax]

The Nature Conservancy is always so good at spelling it out for people. They keep it short and simple.