Help our native wildlife to thrive by stopping the spread of invasive plants!

Plants are vital for our health and environment. They improve air quality, boost our health and wellbeing, help to mitigate the impacts of climate change, and provide a home for other wildlife. Most of us have plants in our gardens and ponds that are not native – they originally came from other parts of the world and have been introduced to Britain by people.

While these non-native plants can help us to create beautiful ornamental displays to enjoy, if they escape into the wild some become invasive, harming our wildlife and environment, economy, and even our health and the way we live.

But surely all plants are beneficial wherever they grow?

The wrong plant in the wrong place can be damaging to the environment. Invasive plants can harm native plants, impacting on other species which rely on them, including birds, butterflies and other insects. Some impact on the economy and our communities by interfering with agriculture and utilities, or make it harder for us to take part in recreational activities such as fishing, sailing or paddling. Others can even affect our health. 

Once established, invasive plants are costly to control and the damage they cause can be irreversible. Pond and aquarium plants can be particularly devastating if they escape into a natural waterbody. 

Find out more about the impacts of invasive plants.

How can I help protect the environment while enjoying my garden?

We all want to look after the environment and our native wildlife for future generations to enjoy. Be Plant Wise by following our three simple tips:

Know what you grow

Choose the right plants for your garden, pond and water features.

Stop the spread

Keep your plants in your garden - don't plant them, or allow them to grow, in the wild.

Compost with care

Dispose of your unwanted plants, roots, weeds, seeds, and seed heads responsibly.

A group of nine water companies are contributing to a project to improve aquatic biosecurity, including funding for Be Plant Wise. Find out more about the Aquatic Biosecurity Partnership.