If you’re planning a garden, cleaning up your landscape, or just trying to keep your yard in check, there’s one thing that can quietly get out of control: invasive plants. In New England, certain species spread fast, choke out native plants, and make a mess of your property before you even know what hit you. Some of them look harmless—maybe even pretty—but they’re aggressive, stubborn, and tough to get rid of once they’re established. Knowing which invasive plants to avoid can save you a lot of frustration and money. Here’s what you need to watch out for and why it matters.
What Makes a Plant Invasive?
Invasive plants are non-native species that outcompete native vegetation. They spread quickly, often because they lack natural predators in the area. This can lead to overcrowding, soil degradation, and a loss of biodiversity. Some even change the chemistry of the soil, making it harder for native species to return, even after the invader is removed.
In your yard, that means more weeding, pruning, and maintenance. And in some cases, it means losing the natural beauty and balance of the landscape around your home.
Invasive Plants to Avoid in New England
Some invasive plants have been around for decades. Others are relatively new to the region but are spreading fast. Here are some of the top culprits you should avoid.
Japanese Knotweed
This one’s a beast. It looks like bamboo and can grow several inches a day. It spreads underground through thick rhizomes and can break through asphalt, foundations, and retaining walls. Once it’s in your yard, it’s incredibly hard to get rid of.
Oriental Bittersweet
Its bright berries and vines may look attractive, but don’t be fooled. Oriental bittersweet wraps itself around trees and shrubs, strangling them as it climbs. It spreads by seed and root, and it doesn’t take long before it’s covering fences, hedges, and anything else in its path.
Norway Maple
You’ll find these trees all over New England, but they’re not doing our ecosystems any favors. They leaf out early, block sunlight from reaching native plants, and produce dense roots that crowd out everything underneath. They’re also prolific seed producers, which makes them hard to control.
Japanese Barberry
Popular in older landscaping designs, this thorny shrub has fallen out of favor for good reason. It creates dense thickets that push out native plants, and studies have shown it creates the kind of moist, shady environment that ticks love. If you want fewer pests in your yard, skip this one.
Burning Bush
This shrub was a common choice for fall color, but it’s now banned in several states, including parts of New England. It escapes cultivated landscapes and spreads aggressively in forests and fields. Once it’s loose, it’s hard to manage.
Purple Loosestrife
This one fools people because it’s showy and colorful. But don’t let the flowers distract you. Purple loosestrife takes over wetlands and streambanks, pushing out native plants that wildlife depend on. It can destroy habitats in a matter of a few growing seasons.
Why You Should Care
Invasive plants aren’t just a nuisance. They can reduce property values, increase maintenance costs, and put stress on the local environment. They also tend to disrupt the natural balance that keeps local ecosystems healthy. If you enjoy birdwatching, native pollinators, or a yard that doesn’t require constant damage control, invasive species are your enemy.
Replacing invasive plants with native alternatives is a smart move. Native plants are better adapted to the climate, require less maintenance, and support local wildlife. You don’t have to sacrifice beauty or color—there are plenty of native plants that offer year-round interest.
What You Can Do
Start by learning what’s already growing in your yard. If you spot any of the invasives listed above, make a plan to remove them. Dig out the entire root system and monitor the area for regrowth. Don’t compost invasive plant material—bag it and dispose of it properly.
When planting new shrubs, trees, or groundcover, check local resources for native alternatives. Your local cooperative extension or garden center can help guide you to safe, non-invasive choices. Staying informed is half the battle.
FAQs on Invasive Plants to Avoid
Are invasive plants really that bad for my yard?
Yes. They often require more maintenance, spread aggressively, and can damage the structure and health of your landscape over time.
Can I still buy these plants at garden centers?
Some invasive species are still sold in certain areas, even if they’re restricted elsewhere. Always check your state’s list of regulated plants before buying.
How do I get rid of invasive plants once they’re established?
It depends on the species. Some require repeated cutting and digging. Others may need herbicide treatments. Consistency is key—one round won’t cut it.
What are some good native alternatives?
Instead of burning bush, try red chokeberry. Instead of Japanese barberry, consider inkberry or winterberry holly. For purple loosestrife, swamp milkweed or blue flag iris can fill that gap.
Where can I learn more?
Start with your state’s Department of Environmental Protection or university extension service. They often have guides, workshops, and plant lists specific to your area.
JBS Home Inspections offers home inspection services to Greater Boston. Contact us to schedule an inspection.