Spring is here, and for a lot of Ontario homeowners and garden lovers, it’s the perfect time to reconnect with nature. But before you dig into your soil and plant something new, it’s important to know that not all greenery is good for the environment. Some plants—especially invasive ones—do more harm than good.
Invasive species in Ontario are a growing concern. These non-native species are taking root across the province, including in farmland, forests, lakes, and even home gardens. They outcompete native plants, disrupt natural food chains, and threaten Ontario’s biodiversity. Whether you’re gardening in your backyard, walking through a forest, or enjoying activities near the water, understanding and managing invasive species is something we all need to take seriously.
Conservation and Management: A Look at Ontario’s Invasive Species
Invasive species include both plants and animals. In Ontario, invasive plants like garlic mustard, purple loosestrife, and invasive phragmites are widespread and incredibly damaging. These plants can quickly displace native species, affect water quality, and upset the balance of ecosystems by competing with native vegetation for light, space, and nutrients.
Some invasive plants can be free floating in aquatic ecosystems, while others are terrestrial plants in a forest, spreading aggressively in places where forest ecosystem can be trees, shrubs, or herbaceous plants. These invaders are especially harmful in areas like farmland and conservation spaces, where they interfere with crop growth, native pollinators, and soil health.
A Better Way Forward: Why Sustainable Landscape Design Matters
Sustainable landscape design is about more than just what looks good in your yard—it’s about creating outdoor spaces that support the health of local ecosystems. In Ontario, sustainable gardening means understanding the difference between invasive vs native species and choosing plants that benefit pollinators, birds, and native fish.
By using native plants, homeowners and landowners can improve soil quality, reduce maintenance, and avoid accidentally supporting the spread of invasive species. Many native options are better suited to local conditions and can thrive without extra fertilizers or irrigation.
Designing your garden or greenspace with intention is one of the most effective ways to prevent the introduction and spread of new invasive species, especially as we head deeper into 2024 and more new species emerge as threats.
How to Identify, Remove, and Prevent the Spread of Invasive Plants
Not sure if a plant in your yard is invasive? That’s where the Grow Me Instead Guide comes in. It’s a free, easy-to-use tool that helps you identify common Ontario invasive plant species and provides native alternatives to plant instead.
The guide includes:
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Clear ID tips for invasive plants and aquatic plants
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Suggested removal techniques
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Seasonal planting tips for native species
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Guidance on how to choose plants that improve biodiversity and support fish species, pollinators, and soil health
The guide breaks down the science in a way that’s accessible for everyone, whether you’re a homeowner, farmer, or outdoor enthusiast.
Get the Big Picture: Watch Our Sustainable Landscape Design Series
Want to dig deeper into the topic? Our Sustainable Landscape Design series on YouTube is all about working with nature instead of against it. You’ll hear from experts on how plants in a forest ecosystem, wetlands, and gardens are impacted by invasive species and what can be done about it.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
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How invasive plants threaten the structure of a forest ecosystem
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Why native plants matter for biodiversity and recreational activities
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Real rewilding projects across Ontario that you can also implement in your backyard
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Ways to design your yard that reduce environmental impact
This series is perfect for anyone curious about how to garden more responsibly or who wants to support conservation from home.
What You Can Do to Help
It’s not just up to the government or scientists to fight invasive species—everyone has a part to play. Here are some simple things you can do:
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Use native plants in your yard or property
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Avoid planting anything that’s on Ontario’s weed or invasive plant list—even if it’s for sale
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Volunteer with your local conservation authority to help with local removal efforts
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Clean your gear, boots, and boats to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species
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Stay informed by checking fact sheets from the Invasive Species Centre, Ontario Invasive Plant Council, or Government of Canada
The threat of invasive species is real—but with consistent action, we can help restore balance in Ontario’s ecosystems by competing less with nature and working more in harmony with it.
Download the Guide and Start Making an Impact
Ready to do your part?
Download the Grow Me Instead Guide to identify, avoid, and remove invasive plants.
Watch our Sustainable Landscape Design series to learn how to manage your space in a way that protects Ontario’s ecosystems.
Let’s make 2025 the year we turn the tide on invasive species—starting with our own backyards.