So I came across an article about invasive plants that we shouldn't be planting I knew about a few of them Japanese Knotweed and Golden Bamboo those two are a given, oh and Giant Hogweed, which if you're not careful you will mistake for Elderflower. The leaves are completely different with these two plants, but the flower heads do look similar and you really don't want to be making Elderflower cordial with Giant Hogweed so make sure you know the difference.
Another plant they said that we shouldn't really plant is Ivy (Hedera, helix) whilst I understand that it is very invasive and it is a tough plant that puts out suckers with extra suckers that stick really well I don't agree with us not planting it or removing it all from places as it is needed for the ecosystem as are all plants, but this one in particular if you're a lover of moths and butterflies, which I am. Also it is extremely beautiful especially in some of the variegated varieties and it looks great in hanging baskets and planters. Last year I had the pleasure of having to remove some ivy that had grown up the front of a house and with the ivy off came the plaster. I know it can damage buildings, it was tough to remove it, but Ivy is very much needed for the wildlife there are many species of our moths and butterflies that absolutely love Ivy, I have video evidence lol. Not only moths and butterflies rely on it for a source of food, some rare insects such as the golden hoverfly also love to munch on it and common wasps. I think it's vital that we don't remove it all, sure we have to keep on top of its maintenance to ensure that it doesn't take over, but please do not remove it all.
Another plant that we shouldn't really plant that sparked a memory for me is the Himalayan Balsam, known as the policeman's helmet. I found one in one of my customers gardens last year, I had never seen one before I found it to be very beautiful and the bees love it! The memory was of my customer who sadly passed away at Christmas, she was such a lovely lady and I know it's bad, but I am wondering how her plants are that she left behind and if anyone has been caring for them. My bad.
