Invasive species are more than just a nuisance for gardeners; they pose a real threat to the ecosystems they infiltrate.
A recent TikTok video posted by Lawn2Prairie (@lawn2prairie) highlights how prevalent invasive plants can be and how gardening stores enable their spread.
@lawn2prairie Pulled a Rose of Sharon from my garden today… even though I’ve never planted one, and neither have my neighbors. Invasive plants don’t respect property lines — they spread into wild spaces and push out native plants wildlife needs. And yet, in Illinois, you can still buy species like burning bush, callery pear, privet, Japanese barberry, Norway maple, and wintercreeper. 🌱💚 #InvasivePlants #NativePlants #IllinoisGardening #EcoFriendlyGarden #PollinatorFriendly ♬ swatting at flies – ethan mcneal
“Pulled a Rose of Sharon from my garden today… even though I’ve never planted one, and neither have my neighbors,” the user said in the post. “It amazes me how that aggressive species like this aren’t banned by laws — you can still buy [invasive species] in Illinois.”
The rose of Sharon is native to Asia and is one of many invasive species in the United States. When brought into areas where it can outcompete native plants, it takes up space and throws off the natural balance.
According to Gardening Know How, this plant can grow up to 10 feet and scatter seeds, creating seemingly random growth, as seen in the TikTok video. Luckily, unlike some other invasive species, such as the tree of heaven, this invasive plant can be managed.
“When the rose of Sharon flowers finish blooming, deadheading them takes care of the invasiveness problem. Snip off each faded flower and the developing seed pod under it,” Gardening Know How explains.
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To avoid bringing invasive plants into your area, rewilding your yard is a great move. The process involves planting native plants, which will help out your local ecosystem instead of hurting it. Plus, local pollinators and environmental factors will help reduce the time and energy needed to maintain your native garden.
With a native garden, you will save money by not using excessive water or harmful pesticides — you will also have a gorgeous garden that butterflies, bees, and other pollinators are sure to visit.
Other TikTok users shared their thoughts on invasive plants, with one commenting on another species, saying: “Buckthorn was once sold as an ornamental.”
Another person complimented the poster’s native plants growing in frame, adding: “Love those partridge peas though!!!!”
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