Hanging baskets and flower planter boxes do a great deal to embellish one’s home and garden. Whether you create your own or buy one from a garden center or grocery store, it is important to be aware of what’s growing inside. Certain plant species that are known to trail well or be effective ground covers are invasive and can wreak havoc on the natural environment if left unchecked and given the opportunity to spread.
Yellow Lamium, Common Periwinkle, and English Ivy are invasive plant species that are commonly found in hanging baskets and flower box planters. These species have the ability to easily propagate and spread out of control. If a root or stem fragment from these plants touches the soil, it can sprout into entirely new plants. Given the opportunity, these plants create an extensive groundcover that can negatively impact our environment.
What You Can Do
Consider replacing any of the above invasive plants with similar native plants like Bunchberry, Barrenwort, or Redwood Sorrel.
More
Grow Me Instead lists invasive species commonly found in garden centers across BC and suggests non-invasive plant alternatives (native and exotic) that are equally as beautiful and suitable for growing conditions in BC.
PlantWise aims to educate and support the horticulture industry to become invasive-free, and make PlantWise choices.
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