Florida is home to more invasive plants and animals (including pests) than any other state in the country. This unfortunate fact is largely due to Florida’s unique subtropical climate that provides a longer growth period for invasive species than they’d find in any other region of the country.
Invasive and non-native plants are more than just a nuisance. They can destroy natural ecosystems by outcompeting native plant species for sunlight and nutrients. Some of the most common invasive plant species you’ll encounter in The Sunshine State include melaleuca, Australian pine, and Brazilian pepper, but there are many more. Here’s what you need to know about invasive plants, and how you can keep them from harming your landscape—and our state’s natural ecosystem at large.
Why Are Invasive Plants a Problem?
Invasive plants are a problem, especially in residential areas in Florida, for many reasons. Not only do they grow very fast, but homeowners often don’t recognize that the plants growing on their property are invasive in the first place. Left unchecked, invasive plants can damage both ecosystems and built infrastructure. When invasive species are properly managed, it not only elevates the look of a community’s landscaping, but it also improves property values and overall quality of life for residents.
The Best Approach for Managing Invasive Species
The most effective—and environmentally-friendly—way to deal with invasive species, including plants and pests, is through an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. This process is science-backed, combining tools and strategies to identify and manage invasive pests.
By focusing on long-term pest prevention and the damage they cause, IPM uses a combination of techniques like biological control, habitat manipulation, use of resistant varieties, and more. Often, professional lawn care companies like Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control can remove the invasive species without the use of chemicals, keeping your family and pets—and the environment as a whole—safe.
Some of the specific benefits of an Integrated Pest Management approach include:
- Promotes Biodiversity. Since IPM targets specific species only, the method protects biodiversity. You can put the safety of nature first by employing IMP techniques, rather than herbicides, to control invasive species.
- Saves Money. IPM is often more cost-effective since it controls pest population surges automatically. This is something that regular pesticide use can’t do.
- Reduced Herbicide Resistance. Invasive species can develop resistance to herbicides over time. Only IPM can slow down the development of resistance, ensuring plants can’t adapt and survive.
Trust Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control to Deal With Invasive Plant Species
At Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Leesburg, we follow an Integrated Pest Management approach to both our lawn care and pest control services. Not only is this strategy effective for dealing with invasive plant species, but it also protects human and animal health, as well as the environment. If you suspect invasive plant species have taken root in your yard, give us a call at (407) 880-6655 to schedule your free consultation.
