Discovering that Fuchsia and Montbretia, which are commonly believed to be native Irish plants, may in fact, have non-native origins
In the lush landscapes of Ireland, a silent threat looms - invasive plant species. From the mile-a-minute vine (Fallopia baldschuanica) to the American skunk-cabbage (Lysichiton americanus), these foreign invaders threaten native plant habitats and ecosystems.
One such plant, the much-loved Fuchsia magellanica, while not native to Ireland, is considered close to being invasive. Another, Rhododendron ponticum, poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of vulnerable ecosystems in the wild Irish countryside.
Gardeners have a crucial role to play in preventing the spread of these invasive plant species. Practical measures include sourcing plants and seeds responsibly, avoiding planting non-native species in the wild, and taking decisive action when an invasive or potentially invasive plant species is found.
Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica), a perennial plant introduced into Europe as an ornamental plant and fodder crop, is now considered invasive and can potentially undermine roads, driveways, and building foundations. Giant hogweed (Heracleum montegazzianum), a vigorous and resilient perennial from South Africa, can threaten the stability of river banks and human health. Both are on the EU's invasive alien species of union concern.
Effective management of invasive plants involves prioritizing the worst or most easily removable infestations. Common techniques include removing flowers or seedheads, cutting stems at ground level, digging trenches, and complete removal and disposal.
Early identification and prompt, informed action are critical since invasives spread quickly and can harm ecosystems, structures, and sometimes human or animal health. Many regions offer support and resources for invasive species control, so contacting local environmental agencies or online expert services is recommended.
For more information on invasive plant species, see websites such as invasives.ie, biodiversityireland.ie, invasivespeciesireland.com, and invasivespeciesni.co.uk.
In other news, the Irish National Vegetable Championships will take place in Moate, Co. Westmeath on August 24th as part of the Moate Agricultural Show, with a new junior category. The Farmleigh House Plant Fair will also take place in Dublin's Phoenix Park on August 3rd, featuring stalls by members of the Irish Specialist Nursery Association and a craft and food market.
The Wild Garden Adventures: Pond Dipping workshop will take place at the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin on August 6th, exploring the diversity of insects and mini-beasts living in and around the ponds.
[1] Environment Controls. (n.d.). Plant Identification Service. Retrieved from https://www.environmentcontrols.co.uk/plant-identification
[2] Invasive Species Ireland. (n.d.). Managing Invasive Species. Retrieved from https://www.invasivespeciesireland.com/managing-invasive-species
[3] Invasive Species Ireland. (n.d.). Invasive Plant Species. Retrieved from https://www.invasivespeciesireland.com/invasive-plant-species
[4] Invasive Species Ireland. (n.d.). Identifying Invasive Plants. Retrieved from https://www.invasivespeciesireland.com/identifying-invasive-plants
[5] Invasive Species Ireland. (n.d.). Free Plant Identification Service. Retrieved from https://www.invasivespeciesireland.com/free-plant-identification-service
- To prevent the spread of invasive plants during gardening, it's essential to source plants and seeds responsibly, especially avoiding planting non-native species in the garden or wild.
- For those who need help identifying invasive plant species in their home and garden, useful resources include the Plant Identification Service from Environment Controls and the free Plant Identification Service on the Invasive Species Ireland website.
- As environmental-science professionals aim to mitigate climate-change impacts on the environment, managing invasive plant species plays a significant role in preserving Ireland's wildlife, ecosystems, and lifestyle.
