Thoughts From The Field

Coming into the doldrums of winter, it may do us well to think ahead to the longer days, warm sunshine, and renewed growth that will arrive in the coming months. In planning your spring planting, it is essential to take a look at the plant species that you will be introducing into the environment. Non-native, and invasive species could take a toll on your yard, pond, or garden.

Before we get too deep, let's differentiate between "non-native" and "invasive" plants. Non-native plants are species that have been introduced into the environment, but they do not necessarily hurt the environment around them. Many, if not most ornamental plant species that are commercially available are non-native to our beloved Piedmont. They are attractive, fun to tend to, and have no significant environmental drawbacks, mainly if they are annuals. Think about the famed cherry trees on the Washington DC waterfront. Invasive plants are species that have been introduced and have a demonstrated negative effect on the environment. These plants are opportunistic and may choke out native, beneficial varieties. Japanese stiltgrass, bamboo, kudzu, and water hyacinth are all invasive species that are commonly found in our area (water hyacinth is an aquatic species found in freshwater ponds and lakes). Invasive species are not only detrimental to the local flora but may pose a risk to the local fauna as well. Giant Hogweed, also known as cow parsley, is an emerging invasive that, if touched, causes severe chemical burns, which lead to scarring. This plant is more commonly found west of the Blue Ridge; however, it is worth being familiar with such a demonic intruder.

In planning your gardens and flower beds for the coming warmer months, it may be prudent to take a closer look at how native wildflowers and other plant species will provide the desired aesthetic, as well as being beneficial to the surrounding habitat. There has been a measurable local movement towards planting meadows and allowing ambient spaces to be "reclaimed" to a certain degree to foster all of the natives. It is incredible when one begins to think about how many species benefit from the local flora. Insects, fungi, mammals, and birds rely on these plants for sustenance and shelter. One would be amazed at how attractive a bed, garden, or meadow of indigenous varieties can be. The added benefit, and one that is fun to plan, is the possibility of foraging on the native plants. Much of the flora found in our area have medicinal and nutritional value.

Thank you for reading. I will see you in the field.