Understanding invasive plants

Jekyll's Humane Gardener is dedicated to educating the general public about the vital importance of growing native plants in yards and gardens. We also emphasize the necessity of eliminating invasive or poisonous botanicals that can harm birds, pets, and other animals. This page will guide you through identifying and managing invasive plants in your environment.

Frequently asked questions about invasive plants

Understanding invasive plants is the first step towards creating a healthy, native-friendly garden. Here are answers to common questions about these problematic plants and how to manage them effectively.

What's the main problem with invasive plants, and what makes them bad for my yard or local wildlife?
There are numerous problems with invasive plants. First, they crowd native plants that are part of the food web for birds, insects, and animals. Second, they attract native insects away from the plants they should be pollinating for future generations. Third, many of them are poisonous to pets, birds, native fauna, and people. Fourth, they can completely choke local ponds, streams, and lakes. Fifth, they draw taxpayer money because government agencies have to use resources to eradicate them. Sixth, many require excessive watering and thus use valuable resources. Seventh, they require more pesticides than native plants which have adapted over millions of years to native pests.

If I find one of these bad plants, what's the best way to get rid of it without hurting everything else?

The best way to remove invasive plants is using a multi-step approach that completely destroys the root system while preventing new seeds from germinating. The most effective methods include manual digging for shallow roots, cut-stump treatment for woody species and soil solarizationn for large infestations. Never put invasive plant fragments or seeds into your home or municipal compost pile as they can easily spread and root elsewhere. Place cuttings in heavy-duty black trash bags, let them bake in the sun for several weeks to die, and dispose of them with regular landfill trash.

What are some easy ways for someone with no plant experience to tell if a plant is invasive?

The internet is a wonderful source of information on invasives. Also, websites such as iNaturalist can identify invasives with a simple picture from your phone. The Jekyll Island Authority employs experts in both Landscape and Conservation that can answer questions, schedule walks, and present programs to educate the public. The JIA's website has phone numbers/emails for department heads and some staff if you need to contact an expert to ID a problem plant or tree.

Are there any specific invasive plants that are a big problem where I live, and what do they look like?

Some common problematic invasive plants include Chinese Tallow, Ligustrum, White Mulberry, Bradford Pear (Callery Pear), Salt Cedar (Tamarisk), Beach Vitex, Lantana, Oleander, Hen's Eyes (Ardisia Crenata), Nandina, Water Hyacinth, Mexican Milkweed/Tropical Milkweed, Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii), Sago Palm and Cherokee Rose. It's best to research what specifically impacts your local ecosystem.

Join the movement for native gardens

By identifying and removing invasive plants, you contribute to a healthier environment for all. Learn more about native plant benefits and how to get involved.