What are invasive plants? | Virginia Invasive Plant List | What you can do

Invasive Plant Species of Virginia - What You Can Do - Take action

Take action to protect our wildlife, natural areas and waters and prevent the spread and establishment of invasive species:

Clean your boat. If you have used your boat in waters known to have invasive species like hydrilla or zebra mussel, clean it thoroughly before moving it to other water bodies. Invasive species are often hidden hitchhikers and are spread through lack of awareness. Don't become part of the problem! Learn more.

Clean your boots. If you have hiked in habitat with invasive species like garlic mustard, Japanese stiltgrass or wavyleaf grass, clean your boots of any seeds before leaving the site. While you're at it, check your dog for seeds, too. Humans and their animal allies frequently move invasive species seed to new locations and accidentally increase their range. Learn more.

Use native plants in gardens and landscapes. Planting natives will also enhance your backyard wildlife species like birds and butterflies. See DCR's resources on native plant landscaping.

Burn it where you buy it. This action takes aim at invasive insects that can be moved in firewood and damage or kill native plants. When invasive insects damage forests, invasive plants quickly spread. Emerald ash borer has recently become established in Virginia and is known to be spread by firewood moved from an infested area to an uninfested site. Asian long-horned beetle and other invasive insects can be spread this way, too. Learn how to avoid helping these bugs.