In the final episode of the Invasive Plant Series Bob, Greg and Sam outline several possible paths that the common person can undertake to help turn the tide of invasive plants. From education and community driven initiatives to pushing market changes through purchasing power, we can all do a small part to make a big difference.
Related Episodes: Walnut Woods, Invasive Plants, Lawns, Gardening for Moths with Jim McCormac, The Nature of Oaks with Doug Tallamy
For more information, we recommend these sources:
- Native Plant Education and Volunteer Opportunities with Civic Garden Center
- Native Plant Education with Active Outdoors
- Native Plant Gardening Intro
- Cincinnati Volunteer Opportunity with Cincinnati Parks
Nature’s Ark Photography offers many native plants for sale: https://naturesarkphotography.com/plants-for-sale/
I so appreciated your important invasive weed series and learned a lot! For 5 years now I lead a neighborhood Weed Warrior group here in Colorado where Common Mullein, Canada Thistle, Scotch Thistle, Bull Thistle and Musk Thistle are taking over our precious grasslands. Last year our group of 8-10 volunteers worked 470 hours last year alone to tend 6000 acres. After multiple years, we’re finally winning the battle but can’t let up. I write this to encourage you that people all over the country are hearing your cry to tackle this horrific problem. I also really appreciated your comments on the horticultural industry. Thanks for all you do! Dawn
Glad to hear you are winning the battle! Thanks for your words of encouragement!
Your series on invasive plants is one of the best I have heard or read, even rivaling Doug Tallamy! Greg and Sam are great and did an excellent job of clearly explaining the issue and the consequences. The task can seem overwhelming and the best place to start is by education, which can be very difficult. I have been volunteering at some of the Michigan state parks and recreation areas helping to remove invasive plants (honeysuckle, autumn olive, and bittersweet) and it is tough work. I have been impressed how much of a difference it can make when a group of people help. This is a very important issue that most people aren’t aware of and you guys did a great job of explaining it and encouraging people to get involved.
Greg and Sam did a fantastic job on this series! Thanks for taking the time to acknowledge their hard work. It is a difficult topic but as you say it is work best done with a group of supportive people. Thanks for all you are doing in your neck of the woods! -Bob