Australia’s gardening industry is unknowingly contributing to the spread of invasive weeds, according to the Invasive Species Council (ISC).

Tens of thousands of plant species are sold by garden retailers, yet fewer than 25% have been assessed for their potential to become invasive.

Popular plants like agapanthus, gazania, and Japanese honeysuckle are among those identified as threats to native ecosystems.

ISC's Imogen Ebsworth and invasive species expert Professor Singarayer Florentine warn that many attractive, hardy garden plants share traits that make them highly invasive.

Despite the existence of a national weed strategy since 1997, coordination between states remains inconsistent, allowing plants banned in one region to be sold in another.

A 2004 report found that 75% of Australia’s established weeds originated from gardens.

Recent moves to address the issue include a 2024 decision to develop a specific action plan for escaped garden plants, aiming to assess all 30,000+ species available in nurseries, ban high-risk species, and target "sleeper weeds" before they become widespread.

This article highlights the urgent need for stronger regulation and national cooperation to prevent future ecological damage from invasive garden plants.

Original article by Gavin McGrath for ABC Rural - to read the full article please click here.