Plant Wise

Humans are largely responsible for the movement of invasive species from one area to another. Many human-assisted pathways have permitted the introduction of invasive species in Nova Scotia. One of these pathways is the garden and horticultural trade. Many invasive species are sold as plants for gardens. Unfortunately, they take over gardens very quickly and can quickly escape cultivation and spread into neighbouring ecosystems.

We have created a Grow Me Instead Guide which highlights some common invasive species used in gardens and offers native or non-invasive alternatives. This will help guide gardeners and landscapers choose non-invasive and native plants that will thrive in their gardens and not harm native ecosystems!

Goals and Objectives of Plant Wise

Partnerships

Develop and promote partnerships between national and provincial horticulture/nursery associations, the CCIS and its provincial members.

Standard Messaging

Promote branding, information sharing, resource consistency, and standard messaging amongst the provincial horticulture outreach groups.

Education

Educate gardeners, garden retailers, nurseries, growers, and the landscape industry to:

Understand what invasive plants are, why they’re a problem, and what they can do to prevent their spread
Stop buying and selling invasive plants
Promote the sale and purchase of non-invasive alterative plants
Control or replace invasive plant species
Dispose of unwanted plants/plant material properly.