Invasive species are not native to their current location and so do not have predators to keep them in check, nor are they a part of the food web in this new location. They easily establish and spread, outcompeting native species and harming the environment. Not all non-native plants are invasive. 

There are many ways to try to control invasive plants, including manual removal, biological control, and chemical (pesticide) application. The US Forest Service has information on invasive control, including using herbicides. However, the Native Plant Trust, which also gives guidance on controlling invasives, now no longer recommends chemical controls because of the harm they cause. This is a very complicated issue and there is always more information coming out on best practices. We recommend you get advice from an ecologist – not a landscape or pest control company – before considering using pesticides, in this case herbicides, for invasive plant control. 

And remember, once invasive plants are removed, it is very important to replace them with native plants to make it harder for the invasives to re-establish. 

More information on invasive species:

• Excellent overview of invasive plant species with advice for removal, from Native Plant Trust
• Invasive plant species – our friends at Mass Audubon have compiled a list of Massachusetts invasives. They give guidance on how to identify and control them
• What to plant after removing invasives is as important as removing them in the first place. Empty ground is a welcome sign to invasives. Our friends at Wild Seed Project offer suggestions on replanting. And remember to check the list for plants that rabbits adore (in case you have lots of rabbits in your area)
• Jumping worms – Cornell Cooperative Extension has info and advice on dealing with jumping worms