The DEFRA Code of Practice on Invasive Non-native Plants
DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) has launched a new code of practice to draw attention to the problem of invasive non-native plants. The RHS and other organisations have worked with DEFRA to develop the code.
After habitat destruction, invasives are the second most serious threat to global biodiversity. In the UK our gardens have been greatly enriched by introductions from abroad, but a few plants have also proved invasive in the wider environment. The aim of the Horticultural Code of Practice is to highlight the problems that invasive non-native plants can cause and to advise all those involved in horticulture, from supply to end-use, what they can do to stop this problem.
In welcoming the introduction of the code Andrew Colquhoun, Director General of the RHS stated ‘The DEFRA Code of Practice provides a common approach for everyone, working together to reduce the risk that invasive non-native species present. The RHS believes that, if everyone follows the Code, we will protect our countryside while enabling gardeners to enjoy the diversity of plants that make our gardens the envy of the world’.
The code seeks to inform all users of plant material from gardeners through garden centres and nurseries to local authorities and developers of the potential damage that introduced species may cause to the wider environment. It also offers guidance on legislation, together with information on the control and safe disposal of plant material. It is hoped that observation of the Code will make a major contribution to preventing the spread of invasive non-native species in the British countryside.
Although fly-tipping is one way invasive species are spread, most invasives enter the wider environment accidentally. There is an onus on gardeners to keep garden plants within their gardens. An invasive plant in the garden is a problem only for the gardener, however, if such plants escape into the wild the repercussions are more serious and control becomes more difficult. Some gardeners are also guilty of releasing plant material into the wild in the mistaken belief that it is better than destroying the offending plant. Generally most plant material can be composted or buried in the garden.
A key element of the Code is that plants should be accurately named and described, particularly regarding their growth habit and eventual size. It is also the intention that growers signing up to the code will label plants to indicate possible danger to the wider environment. It will be good practice for all purchasers of plant material to request such information in the future.
There is a leaflet produced by DEFRA to accompany the launch of the code and the main code will be available in electronic form via the DEFRA website (www.defra.gov.uk). This will allow regular updating. Links to other websites will also provide more detail. Further information is also available from the DEFRA helpline (08459 335577).
View the RHS Invasive non-native species Conservation & Environment leaflet