As you walk, bike, or drive through Laurel Park this fall, you may notice familiar landscape plants growing along roadsides and at the edges of natural areas. Many are ornamental plants that have escaped from residential landscapes.
Laurel Park has more than 30 invasive plant species, including several ornamentals still sold in local nurseries. These include miscanthus, mahonia, nandina, fountain grass, and others. Miscanthus and fountain grass are spreading rapidly in parts of our community.
Some plants spread through seeds carried by wind, water, wildlife, or people. Others spread when unwanted plants, roots, clippings, or yard waste are improperly discarded in natural areas.
Prevention is the first step in invasive plant management—and something every resident can help with.
This fall, take two simple actions:
• Check before you buy. Before purchasing landscape plants, consult the North Carolina Invasive Plant Council’s invasive plant list and avoid listed species. Ask nursery staff if you are unsure.
• Plan before you dispose. Never dump plants, roots, clippings, or other yard waste along roadsides, in woods, vacant lots, or other natural areas. Do not assume invasive plant material is harmless if left to decompose. Instead, follow Town of Laurel Park yard-waste guidelines, use paper lawn waste bags, and request pickup.
Thoughtful planting and responsible fall cleanup can help keep unwanted ornamentals from becoming Laurel Park’s next invasive infestation.