In my time with Boundary Invasive Species Society, I have seen many a gardener stop abruptly at our farmers’ market stall to look with dismay at the one or two or seven plants on our boards which they recognize. And no wonder. There are many ornamental varieties which have escaped the confines of a garden bed and made a run for the hills or the pond, or any number of other local ecosystems.
Common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) - an invasive ornamental species However much we may appreciate a full bed of flowers in the garden, escaped ornamental species are causing havoc right here in the Boundary.
Terrestrial invasive species such as yellow and dalmatian toadflax (Linaria vulgaris & Linaria dalmatica), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), and baby’s breath (Gypsophila paniculata) among others have taken over roadsides, range, and private land. They outcompete species which support native insect populations and reduce forage for wildlife and livestock. A field full of oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) is a pretty sight until you realize that there are no other species growing. Invasive species are the second largest factor in the loss of biodiversity worldwide. Besides negatively impacting biodiversity, invasive species also increase the risk of wildfire. Because most invasive plants are unpalatable to grazers, plants can form dense thickets and leave behind tinder-dry stalks. Baby's breath (Gypsophila paniculata) - invasive
Yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) and fragrant water lily (Nymphaea odorata) are present in Boundary lakes, rivers, and creeks. Aquatic invasive species damage fish habitat and impede water flow. These species can spread quicky as seeds and root fragments are distributed by currents. Even when they appear contained in a garden pond, flooding can carry the species overland and into our watershed.
Beware of wildflowers! Unfortunately, invasive species are still sold in stores and nurseries. They are often found in wildflower mixes which is why broadcast seeding in your garden, in your field, or driving down the road is a very harmful practice. "Wildflower" does not mean "native species" and a three-dollar packet Yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) - invasive could cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. If you do decide to plant a wildflower mix on your own land, please read the species list very carefully and double check scientific names as some companies will sell invasive plants under an alternative common name. A safer practice is to buy packets that only contain one species. This makes it easier to be sure of the contents.
Nurseries are also not dependable when it comes to avoiding invasive species. Many still supply invasive species so we recommend that you do your research on the flower, shrub, or tree you are looking to purchase. That can be as easy as reaching out to us! Again, watch out for the use of alternative common names.
As you may have already guessed, collecting flower seeds from a patch at the side of the road is not a good idea. You might just be bringing home a big headache. For your sake and ours, please do not source your seeds from what you find growing wild without a definite identification and research into their origin.
Blueweed (Echium vulgare) - invasive
The Boundary being a small community, neighbours often share resources including garden plants. Be careful of what you exchange with other gardeners. As with seed packets and nurseries, double check the species you are getting. It is also a good idea to check that there are no other invasives present in the garden as seeds travel easily in the soil and you might get more than you bargained for.
Another important practice for reducing the spread is not to dump your garden waste. Never take any garden waste to dump sites off your property. If you are trying to compost invasive plants in your own yard, be aware that compost does not get hot enough to kill the seeds. The best way to dispose of plants with seeds or those which can regrow from root fragments is to double bag them and take it to your local land fill or transfer station. Disposal of all invasive species is free through the RDKB program!
A resource for gardeners wanting to avoid invasive plants altogether or looking to replace those already in their garden is the Invasive Species Council of BC’s Grow Me Instead page. Grow Me Instead provides information on invas
ives ornamentals, but, more importantly, offers alternatives. Information can be found online at https://bcinvasives.ca/play-your-part/plantwise/grow-me-instead/ or contact Boundary Invasive Species Society.
If you have any questions or concerns about what is growing in your garden, reach out to us! We can be contacted at 250-446-2232, through email info@boundaryinvasives.com, or check out the rest of our website.
Ornamental invasives have taken off in this wetland just outside of Oliver. Siberian elm, Russian olive, tree of heaven, purple looseleaf strife, and other invasive plant species can been seen in the video.
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