I attended an invasive species training in Frankfort. Several invasive species were identified. These invasive species have harmed the natural environment in several different ways, including out competing native species and not providing food for wildlife like the native plants have done in the past.  

Invasive plants and native plants have distinct characteristics and impacts on their ecosystems:

Native Plants

• Adaptation: Native plants are naturally found in a specific region and have adapted to the local climate, soil, and wildlife over thousands of years
• Benefits: They require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance compared to non-native plants. They also provide essential habitat and food for native wildlife
• Biodiversity: Native plants support a diverse range of species, contributing to a balanced and healthy ecosystem¹.

Invasive Plants

• Introduction: Invasive plants are non-native species that have been introduced to an area, either intentionally or accidentally
• Aggressiveness: They tend to grow and spread rapidly, outcompeting native plants for resources like light, water, and nutrients
• Impact: Invasive plants can significantly reduce biodiversity by displacing native species, altering habitats, and disrupting ecosystem processes

In summary, while native plants are beneficial for maintaining ecological balance, invasive plants can cause significant harm to local ecosystems.

Also native species were identified and recommended as replacements in home landscaping and other applications to be used instead of the  for the harmful invasive species.

Each participant in the training was given 10 native plants that are good replacements for invasive species in our area. These plants are much more beneficial to the environment. I brought these native plants back to Laurel County. Some members of the Master Gardeners program planted these native species in the raised bed in our community garden.

The goal is for people to have an opportunity to see these native plants, see that they are thriving in our area, to see that they are much better for our environment and to begin to select these native plants  for use in home landscaping and other applications and not the invasive plants.