Canadian municipalities are taking action to prevent the sale of invasive plants in local garden centres, while advocates are urging the Canadian government to establish a unified approach to regulate the horticultural trade nationwide. Invasive plant species pose a threat to biodiversity across the country, prompting local governments to address gaps in the existing regulatory framework that varies by jurisdiction. Canada has committed to reducing the introduction and establishment of known invasive species by at least 50% by 2030.

The Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR) is calling on the federal government to create a regulatory body for the horticultural industry and develop a national database that identifies invasive plants and their associated risks in different regions. CCIPR co-founder Cathy Kavassalis emphasized the importance of informing the public about potential harm from invasive plants, drawing parallels to existing regulations on other products.

While the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) oversees certain invasive plants under the Plant Protection Act, individual provinces and territories have their own regulations for invasive species and weed control. The CFIA adopts a species- and risk-based approach rather than a blanket prohibition, restricting the import, sale, possession, and movement of regulated pests, including plants sold for ornamental purposes.

In response to local initiatives, Nanaimo and Surrey have taken steps to restrict the sale of invasive plants, with London, Ontario’s environmental committee recommending stricter regulations for retailers selling such plants. However, Kavassalis expressed concerns that the responsibility is often shifted to municipalities, leading to fragmented solutions and resource wastage.

Kirsty MacDonald, Nanaimo’s parks manager, highlighted the impact of invasive plants on the local landscape and potential risks to human health. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to combat the spread of invasive species, including banning the sale of new introductions in backyards.

Advocates are calling on Ottawa to address the issue within the horticultural trade to meet the government’s 2030 target. Studies have shown that ornamental non-native plants play a significant role in introducing invasive species, with potential contributions from plant nurseries. A national database proposed by CCIPR could serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders to identify risky plants in different regions.

Horticulture expert Jim Hole noted that most garden centres would support efforts to prevent the spread of invasive plants, citing the example of ceasing the sale of purple loosestrife when identified as invasive. He emphasized the importance of research, regulation, and public education in controlling unwanted plants, highlighting the benefits of keeping invasive species at bay.

Native plant advocate Lorraine Johnson underscored the influence of nurseries in promoting non-native plants, which can contribute to biodiversity loss. She emphasized the importance of native plant gardens for supporting pollinators and ecosystems. Kavassalis stressed the role of regulating garden centres in raising awareness among gardeners and fostering a deeper connection to the natural world through responsible plant choices.