Responsible Landscaping

Nurseries, gardeners and landscape professionals can potentially be a source for accidental introductions of invasive plants, so proper plant selection and sound disposal practices are key.

Photo: California Invasive Plant Council

Many of the plants that have become invasive in California were originally introduced as ornamental plants through horticulture. This continues to be the most significant avenue for introduction, so it is important that nurseries, gardeners, and landscape professionals follow responsible practices.

A few of the plants invasive in the Sacramento River watershed may still be available in the nursery trade. Invasive plant groups have worked with horticultural experts to identify suitable landscaping alternatives for these problem plants.

Don’t Plant a Pest! promotes the use of non-invasive plants for gardeners in each section of the state. The Central Valley information was developed by partners including the Sacramento River Watershed Program. The Central Valley Don’t Plant a Pest! brochure is available free for outreach efforts.

PlantRight is a campaign sponsored by a consortium of organizations including nurseries and environmental groups. PlantRight encourages professionals in the horticultural industry to prevent new and continued introductions of invasive plants via landscaping. Alternative plants are recommended.

The California Native Plant Society Horticulture Program provides information about native plants for the garden and where to acquire them.

Audubon’s At Home program suggests concrete steps to improve the habitat in your own backyard. The program includes resources and an action plan for invasive plant removal.