Vermont Agency of Agriculture declares eight new invasive plants a threat

Sydney P. Hakes, Burlington Free Press
·1 min read

The Vermont Agency of Agriculture is warning communities about eight new invasive species they have identified throughout the state. The plant species − kudzu, mile-a-minute, Japanese stiltgrass, porcelain berry, wineberry, waterwheel, water hyacinth and water soldier − pose an ecological and economical threat to the natural plants and gardens of Vermont.

The ability to spread quickly and a lack of natural predators can allow these pests to spread efficiently, often killing the natural plants that exist. “Pest” plants have outcompeted native plants that are cultivated in the area, and the state wants gardeners and non-gardeners alike to familiarize themselves with what these plants look like.

The state is recommending people in the Champlain Valley keep an eye on the plants in their area, where invasives are popping up, and to report any sightings through iNaturalist or Vermont Invasives.

Wineberry leaves are green above and silvery white below
Wineberry leaves are green above and silvery white below

The invasive designation will allow the agency to regulate the sale and transport of these species. The selection of these eight plant species was made in consultation with Vermont state government partners, including the Vermont Departments of Forests, Parks and Recreation, Environmental Conservation and Fish and Wildlife at the Agency of Natural Resources.

A patch of Japanese stilt grass, an aggressive, invasive plant.
A patch of Japanese stilt grass, an aggressive, invasive plant.

Photos of the pests, more information and how to report sightings can be found here.

Sydney P. Hakes is the Burlington city reporter. Contact her at SHakes@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: New invasive plants identified by Vermont Agency of Agriculture