Connecticut Considers Banning Landscape Plants

Scientists & residents in Connecticut are concerned by the invasion of landscape plants into the state's wilderness areas, which are often caused by the introduction of ornamental species planted in residential areas.

Three of the plants considered for the ban are burning bush, Norway maple & Japanese barberry. There is controversy between plant growers & the agencies proposing the ban because of economic reasons, but I believe that the benefits out weigh the negatives.

Landscaping is one of the most common ways for plants to be introduced where they are not supposed to be. It is easy to be lulled into complacency by the beauty of a plant, give in & plant it in your garden. Ornamental species can produce an abundance of seeds that are carried into natural areas by wind or other wildlife. Plants used in horticulture are often vigorous by nature & can out compete native species, such is the case with the pesky Phragmites.

As a woman native to Connecticut, I am proud to be a resident of a state that cares about the health of it's natural environments & is taking action to prevent the spread of species that could potentially cause harm to native species. While introduction of species is accidental by nature, we are purposefully bringing in these species for aesthetic reasons, & just by making a few sacrifices, we can prevent pests from becoming a problem.

Listen to this audiofile from NPR.