Invasive Species

Article and stories about invasive species in our state and other places.

A “Dirty Dozen” Plant – Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

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English Ivy: A “Dirty Dozen” Plant – Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

English ivy’s most dangerous attribute is that it vines up and chokes trees. Not only does this prevent photosynthesis from happening by blocking foliage from sunlight, but it also damages tree bark by holding moisture against the trunk. Fungal rot ensues, leading to a slow and painful death for infested trees. Under the weight of the vines, they are also more vulnerable to fall over during extreme weather events. As if that isn’t enough, H. helix is a reservoir for bacterial leaf scorch (Xylella fastidiosa), a pathogen that usually afflicts maples, oaks and elms.

Look Out for Jumping Earthworms!

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Look Out for Jumping Earthworms!

Asian jumping worms are a relatively new invasive species but they are rapidly spreading across the United States. They can be found in the Southeast, along the Eastern Seaboard, and in mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and some Northwestern states.

There are still native species of earthworms in a few areas of North America, but in states where glaciation occurred the native species were wiped out. Forests developed without them, but in time European earthworms appeared and began to burrow through the soil. As the tunnels were created, the earthworms mixed soil components and improved air and water movement. Unfortunately, European nightcrawlers are now being displaced by the destructive Asian jumping worms.

Destroy the Invaders 🐛

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Destroy the Invaders 🐛

Killing and destroying invasive species will be my priority when I own my own land. I’m not afraid to use chemicals and fire to destroy invasives and build a good wildlife habit on my land consistent with my hobby farm goals. You don’t have to be a gronola eating greenie to be a good steward of the land. 

How to Easily Catch Spotted Lanternflies Using a Water Bottle | Smart News | Smithsonian Magazine

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How to Easily Catch Spotted Lanternflies Using a Water Bottle | Smart News | Smithsonian Magazine

For an invasive pest, the spotted lanternfly is a beautifully colorful insect with delicately spotted wings that unfold to reveal a striking pastiche of red, white and black. But don’t be fooled—this planthopper can be destructive, feeding on nutrients sucked from inside plants and leaving behind sugary honeydew that later turns to sooty black mold.

The insect is native to Asia, where it traditionally feeds on the tree species Ailanthus altissima, commonly called tree of heaven. Insect predators keep the spotted lanternfly’s population in check in its native habitat, but in recent years, the species has begun to spread worldwide, likely through global trade. After being found in Pennsylvania in 2014, the damaging pest has now been spotted in nearly a dozen other states.