Florida Garden Centers Still Selling Invasive Plants
Florida gardeners are being cautioned about the continued sale of invasive plant species at local garden centers, which can harm native ecosystems. The Pensacola News Journal highlights which species to avoid and encourages consumers to consult reputable sources before making purchases.
- The Florida Invasive Species Council (FISC), formerly the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC), maintains a list of plants documented to cause ecological harm, but this list is not legally binding. Plants on this list, such as asparagus fern, lantana, and pothos, can still be legally sold in garden centers. - For a plant to be illegal to sell, it must be on the state's official Noxious Weed List, which is regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). It is unlawful for any person to knowingly sell, offer for sale, or distribute any plant on this list. - The process to add a plant to the Noxious Weed List involves a petition, which is then reviewed by the Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Review Committee. The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) has successfully petitioned to have species like the Callery pear and Japanese honeysuckle added to the list. - Invasive plants sold at retailers are often marketed as "hardy" or "fast-growing," which can be indicators of their invasive potential in Florida's warm climate where they don't go dormant. - Some invasive species like the Brazilian pepper-tree form dense thickets that block sunlight and water, harming native vegetation and wildlife habitats. Aquatic invasives such as water hyacinth can create dense mats that deplete oxygen in the water, impacting fish populations and hindering recreational activities like boating. - Consumers can choose from many native alternatives that benefit local ecosystems. For example, instead of the invasive Chinese privet used for hedges, native options like wax myrtle or cherry laurel can be used. Native coral honeysuckle is a good replacement for invasive vines. - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has recently updated rules regarding invasive species, primarily focusing on reptiles like tegus and green iguanas, requiring permits for existing pets and phasing out commercial breeding. - Homeowners can find resources to identify and manage invasive plants through their local UF/IFAS Extension office. There are also mobile apps and websites like IveGot1.org for identifying and reporting invasive species in the wild.
