Canadian municipalities are taking action to prevent the sale of invasive plants in local garden centers, advocating for a national approach to regulate the horticultural trade in Ottawa. The threat of invasive plants to biodiversity nationwide has prompted these efforts to address gaps in the current regulatory system, which varies by jurisdiction. Canada has a goal to decrease the introduction and establishment of known invasive species by at least 50% by 2030.
The Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR) is urging the federal government to establish a regulatory body for the horticultural industry 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 posed by invasive plants, drawing parallels to existing product warnings.
While the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) oversees some invasive plants under the Plant Protection Act, individual provinces and territories have their own legislation for invasive species and weed control. CFIA highlighted its approach as species- and risk-based rather than a blanket prohibition, restricting the import, sale, possession, and movement of regulated pest plants for ornamental purposes.
In response to the growing concern, municipalities like Nanaimo and Surrey have taken steps to restrict the sale of invasive plants by businesses, with London, Ontario, considering similar measures. Advocates stress the need for a collaborative effort involving all levels of government, industry, and organizations to effectively manage invasive plant species.
Kavassalis emphasized the necessity of addressing the horticultural trade to meet the federal government’s 2030 target, citing studies that highlight the role of ornamental non-native plants in introducing invasives. A proposed national database could provide crucial information to stakeholders and help prevent the spread of harmful plants.
Horticulture expert Jim Hole emphasized the willingness of most garden centers to support initiatives preventing invasive plant spread, noting the positive impact of such measures on businesses. Native plant advocate Lorraine Johnson underscored the influence nurseries have in shaping consumer choices and their impact on biodiversity.
Efforts to regulate garden centers aim to raise awareness among consumers about the risks posed by invasive plants and encourage a more mindful approach to gardening that considers the broader ecological impact.