Ornamental invasive plants
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In 2010, several ornamental invasive plants were added to the noxious and prohibited noxious weed lists under the Alberta Weed Control Act.
For additional information:
Alberta Invasive Plant Council
Many of the new species can be found in your flower beds or garden. These “flowers” are identified as invasive plants due to their abilities to spread rapidly, often escaping garden boundaries. They can outgrow native species resulting in an impact on natural environments.
Noxious weeds:
Noxious weeds must be controlled to prevent the spread of seeds and prevent the plants from being established. They can be controlled by hand-pulling, mowing, cultivating or spraying them with an appropriate herbicide.
Examples:
- Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis)
- Creeping Bellflower (Campanula rapunculoides)
- Yellow Clematis (Clematis tangutica)
- Common Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata)
Prohibited noxious weeds:
Prohibited noxious weeds must be destroyed by eradicating all growing parts of the plant or to render the reproductive mechanisms unviable. Prohibited noxious weeds can be destroyed by handpulling, cultivation or mowing followed by an application of an appropriate herbicide. Dispose of prohibited noxious and noxious weeds in a manner that will prevent the spread of the weed seeds. Weeds can be placed in the organics cart for composting.
Examples:
- Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera)
- Salt Cedar (Tamarix spp.)
- St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Avoid wildflower mixes:
Wildflower mixes often contain invasive plant species that spread rapidly and are not from the local area. Make sure to check the label for the Latin names to know exactly what you are planting in your garden and flower beds. Avoid purchasing seed mixes that do not include Latin names on the label. If you would like to plant wildflowers, it is best to research native wildflower species, common to your area, and plant individual flowers or purchase seed mixes from local reputuable growers.
Further information or to report a weed concern:
780-417-7100
transportationandagriculture@strathcona.ab.ca
Last updated: Thursday, June 16, 2011
Page ID: 7722