2019 Conference Climate Change & Gardens 16. Tomos Jones

From 2019: Ornamental plants: a threat to the environment? – Tomos Jones

Invasive plants follow a pattern: introduction > naturalisation > invasive. With a warming climate with fewer frost days, it is possible that more garden ornamental plants might make the leap over the garden fence, particularly those that are reproducing well in gardens (although survival potential should not be confused with invasive potential). Tomos has identified people as the main pathway for invasives entering the environment (through disposal of unwanted plants, accidental seed release etc.) and hence is focusing his research on gardeners and their observations of what could be invasive.

An initial BSBI survey identified a number of potentially invasive plants (e.g. Lonicera nitida, Cyclamen hederifolium, Galanthus nivalis) and is currently being followed up with an online survey open to all gardeners (professional and amateur). The survey is supported by an exhibit at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019 which showcases how gardeners can prevent invasions.