Non-native invasive plants, whether accidentally introduced or purposefully used in gardening, aggressively push out native species because there are no naturally occurring predators, insects or diseases to control their populations.
If invasive plants are growing around your home, removing them can help prevent them from taking over your yard or spreading further. It is important to recognize invasive species and avoid planting them, because when they “escape” from gardens, they may alter the natural ecosystem.
Invasive species removal is extremely important to the biodiversity in Westchester. Each individual species has its own best management practices. We encourage hand removal of these species and stress the use of chemicals as a last resort in controlling invasive species. Although herbicides can be applied to leaves and stems during the active growing season or to the surface of a cut plant immediately after cutting, be certain to follow manufacturer’s directions or defer to the expertise of a licensed applicator, especially when using herbicides near a water source. It is important to note that while a homeowner may use herbicides on their own property, application on public property or on someone else’s property is only permitted if the applicator is licensed by New York state.