Canadian municipalities are taking action to prevent the sale of invasive plants in local garden centers, as calls grow for a national strategy to regulate the horticultural industry. Invasive plants pose a threat to biodiversity nationwide, prompting cities to address gaps in the current regulatory framework that varies by location. Canada has committed to reducing the introduction and establishment of known invasive species by 50% by 2030.
The Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR) is urging the federal government to establish a regulatory body for the horticultural sector and develop a national database identifying invasive plants and associated risks in different regions. CCIPR co-founder Cathy Kavassalis emphasized the importance of informing the public about potential harm from invasive plants, similar to how warnings are provided for other products.
While the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) oversees some invasive plants under the Plant Protection Act, provinces and territories have their own legislation for managing invasive species. The CFIA’s approach focuses on species-specific risks rather than a blanket prohibition, allowing for restrictions on the import, sale, possession, and movement of regulated pests sold for ornamental purposes.
In response to these concerns, several cities have taken steps to restrict the sale of invasive plants. Nanaimo and Surrey councils have pursued bylaw amendments to limit the sale of certain plants, while London’s environmental committee recommended requiring retailers to provide information about invasive plants to customers at the point of sale.
Advocates are calling on the federal government to address the issue within the horticultural trade to meet the 2030 target. Studies have highlighted that ornamental non-native plants are a primary pathway for introducing invasive species, with nurseries playing a significant role in these introductions. A national database could provide crucial information to stakeholders about the risks posed by invasive plants in different regions.
Experts like Jim Hole emphasize the importance of preventing the spread of invasive plants and believe that most garden centers would support such efforts. Educating the public, regulating the industry, and conducting research are seen as key measures to combat the spread of invasive species.
Native plant advocate Lorraine Johnson highlighted the influence of nurseries in shaping consumer choices and emphasized the importance of promoting native plants to support biodiversity. Regulating garden centers can help raise awareness among gardeners about the impact of invasive species and encourage a more conscious approach to plant selection in gardens.