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15 Dec 2023 < Back

Banning the sale of Invasives

A upcoming ban on the sale of Giant Rhubarb (Gunnera) is potentially going to come into force as The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recently conducted a thorough molecular and morphological analysis of Giant Rhubarb, unearthing a new hybrid, Gunnera x cryptica. This hybrid, akin to the prohibited Gunnera tinctoria, exhibits invasive characteristics.

Personally, this discovery ignited my curiosity. However, scrolling through the article's comments, I encountered scepticism and a lack of enthusiasm from some readers, highlighting the insufficient awareness and education about Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) beyond our industry.

The Comments Section

In a recent study from CABI, they highlighted that over 50% of the UK's flora is now non-native. Not all are invasive and yet we are still seeing comments such as: "So the 'experts' have declared another plant invasive. Are they going to do this with every plant that came from another country?" - underscore the need for a broader understanding. The annual cost of $4 billion for dealing with non-native invasives, and with £246.5 million allocated to Japanese knotweed alone, should prompt society to take the issue seriously.

Other comments include, "Too many people with nothing better to do than dictate to others what you can and can't do yet again" and "DEFRA helps no-one", reflect a broader sentiment that the framework for INNS awareness and education is still seriously lacking for those outside our niche industry.

Organisations like the PCA, RHS, CABI, and NNSS tirelessly promote best practices and sustainable management for INNS. However, public attention often focuses on notorious species like Japanese knotweed and Giant Hogweed, overshadowing the relevance of numerous other INNS. In my experience, clients frequently prioritise the removal of Japanese knotweed on construction sites without recognising the significance of various other INNS present in designated construction areas.

New Opportunities

As society remains fixated on Japanese knotweed, it's crucial to recognise that the realm of INNS management extends far beyond this notorious plant. Emerging residential concerns, such as the proliferation of Buddleia or invasive Bamboo varieties demand attention, as well as a diverse array of species which pose threats to commercial sites. This intricate landscape underscores the complexity of INNS management.

With support from PCA members, my dedication is to navigate this expansive terrain, delving into the complexities associated with many more invasive species. Our mission is to advocate for comprehensive awareness and understanding that goes beyond the spotlight on specific species like Japanese knotweed.

We aim to amplify our collective voice, addressing the broader spectrum of INNS challenges and championing a more informed and responsible approach to invasive species management. By doing so, we can foster a proactive and well-rounded strategy which encompasses the multifaceted nature of invasive species and promotes sustainable practices across diverse environments.

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