INVASIVE PLANT MANAGEMENT IN FLORIDA ECOSYSTEMS
In Florida, invasive plants are more than a nuisance—they reshape ecosystems, outcompete native species, and disrupt the delicate balance that defines our landscapes. Managing these invaders effectively requires more than quick fixes; by applying Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, land stewards can take a thoughtful, science-based approach that prioritizes prevention, long-term control, and the health of Florida’s native environments.
Image courtesy of FISP
To learn about what actually makes a plant invasive, head over to our past blog post to learn more, but essentially invasive plants are those introduced by humans, found outside their native range that can cause harm to humans, the environment or the economy.
First Coast Invasive Working Group is a Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) that was established in December 2006 to work across Federal, State, Local, and private lands for invasive species management. The FCIWG is one of the many statewide regional partnerships that is helping the State of Florida prevent and control invasive species, of which our very own Ely Brooks is the co-chair.
They have been working behind the scenes to organize this year's Weed Wrangle events in support of National Invasive Species Awareness Week in February and spread the word to the public to raise awareness and enlist valuable volunteers to help with invasive removals that week. Some of the invasives targeted across different sites will include coral ardisia, kalanchoe houghtonii / delagoensis, asparagus fern, wedelia, tuberous sword fern and mexican petunia. See the flyer below or click this google map link to find an event near you and email firstcoast@floridainvasives.org for more information!
If tackling invasive plants in your own landscape feels overwhelming or you want to be sure the job is done thoughtfully and correctly, working with professionals can make all the difference. Our team specializes in responsible native and invasive plant management rooted in IPM principles—reach out to us to learn how we can help restore balance to your landscape and protect Florida’s natural ecosystems.
