Imagine walking through your city, surrounded by greenery, only to discover that some of the plants around you are secretly sabotaging your ecosystem. This is the harsh reality of invasive plants in our urban areas.
Invasive species are characterized as organisms that are non-native to an ecosystem, whose introduction causes economic, environmental, or human/animal harm. These plants are often introduced by humans through transportation, shipping, travel and agriculture. They are frequently planted, for ornamental use, in gardens and parks, where they can quickly spread and take over.
Once in their new habitat, invasive plants typically thrive due to a lack of native predators, high reproductive rates, and a tolerance of local diseases and climate. Invasive plants can alter habitats; many have shallow roots that increase soil erosion and sedimentation into nearby waterways. Invasives lead to an overall reduction in biodiversity, and, in the worst cases, they can cause native plants and animals to go extinct. Invasive plants also compete with native species for limited resources, growing rapidly and earlier in the season. They can harm human livelihoods by causing declines in local crop yields or reductions in fish and livestock counts.
However, there is a better way: Native plants!
In the United States, native plants are species that have evolved in a particular area prior to European settlement. Native plants are crucial to local ecosystems, having adapted to local soil, moisture, and weather conditions over thousands of years. There are countless benefits that come with integrating native plants into an ecosystem. First, native plants provide the foundation of food webs that local wildlife rely on, by acting as host plants for many insects. This also includes supporting countless pollinators–which are a key part of our food systems. Native plants also provide the best possible habitat for native wildlife, offering essential foods and protective shelter. Furthermore, their deep roots enhance soil health, require less watering, soak up storm runoff and reduce erosion. Native plants can also help fight global warming by sequestering carbon deep within the soil. Some native plants in the Chicago region include Butterfly Milkweed, Prairie Blazing Star and Sky Blue Aster.
Native trees also play a vital role in urban ecosystems. Native trees are better adapted to local climates, making them more resilient to extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. Similar to the roots of native plants, native tree roots mitigate flooding, erosion and sedimentation. Both native plants and trees can thrive without fertilizers and require less herbicide use because they are better adapted to local climate and insect threats. Some trees native to Illinois include White Oak, Pagoda Dogwood and American Basswood.
In today’s urban environments the integration of nature is more important than ever. As urban populations expand, the pressure on local ecosystems increases, often paving the way for invasive species to thrive. As individuals, we can make a difference by recognizing and removing invasive plants and supporting community initiatives to do the same. Make sure you know what you are planting and tell others about the harms of invasive species. Homegrown National Parks has several native plant-finding resources, and the iNaturalist app can also help you identify invasive plants for removal. Invasive species are a threat to our food systems, economies and way of life. They pose a grave threat to our health and well being. It is hard work to eradicate invasive species, but, for the sake of our ecosystems, the effort is well worth it.
Bio: Michelle Plaisted
Michelle Plaisted is a current senior at Glen Ridge High School and intern at Nordson Green Earth that has a passion for environmental science and sustainability. Based in New Jersey, Michelle originally researched in her local community with invasive species and biodiversity, beginning her journey in environmentalism. Michelle focuses on the intersection between environmental inequities and social justice, inspired to learn more about tree equity to advocate sustainable practices in communities. She hopes to continue researching sustainable practices in college, deepening her understanding of these issues. At Nordson Green Earth Foundation, she contributes by developing a company manual and promoting our fundraisers such as Giving Tuesday, enhancing community engagement in environmental efforts. Outside of Nordson, Michelle serves as captain of her tennis team, performs classical piano, and spends time at her town garden to donate to her local food pantry.
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