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While weeds and pests in the garden can be frustrating and time consuming to control, in nature invasive species can wreak havoc.

By definition, an "invasive" species is a non-native plant, animal or other organism that, once introduced into a new environment, outcompetes native species for habitat and food. Although not all exotic species are invasive, those that are can cause tremendous problems.

Particularly troubling is the fact that a number of non-native plants that people have brought into their gardens as ornamentals (such as those listed below) have turned out to be some of the most damaging species when introduced into natural habitats. With global warming, many of these species are expected to gain even more of a foothold.

Do your part by pulling up invasive plants and replacing them with native species.

Common garden invasive species will benefit from global warming (This PDF is 287 Kb in size.)

Related Resources

• Garden for wildlife and certify your yard with the National Wildlife Federation!
• Learn how birds are affected by global warming and how you can help birds with your choices
• The Oregonian: The Green Challenge
• The Oregonian: Homes and Gardens Section
• The EPA GreenScaping program gives a set of landscaping practices that can improve the health and appearance of your lawn and garden while protecting and preserving natural resources.