Explore the buzzwords for potentially problematic plants.

What’s in a name? We often hear terms like non-native, invasive, and aggressive used interchangeably — but they mean different things and can become confusing or problematic when used in the wrong context. Discover the differences between these commonly confused terms and learn how to use them properly.

Presenter: Ken Johnson, Extension Horticulture Educator

Explore Additional Webinars in the Spring 2023 Four Seasons Gardening Series: 

Seasons come and go, but home gardening never stops. Pick up the knowledge you need to embrace a resilient and sustainable home landscape, identify plants that could be problematic, and promote a natural display of beauty throughout the year. Four Seasons Gardening sessions led by Extension’s horticulture experts are free to attend and registration is required.

Native Plants: Sequence of Blooms | 1:30 PM April 25

Native plants are essential components of a sustainable landscape, and many offer blooms to brighten any garden. Explore a selection of Illinois native plants suitable for the home garden and find out how to plant in sequence for a show of blooms that runs from late winter through summer – and into fall! Learn about each plant’s size, growth tendencies, light requirements, and soil moisture needs. By the end of the presentation, participants should have a good feel for what characteristics to look for when selecting a native plant for their garden.

Presenter: Elizabeth Wahle, Commercial Agriculture Educator

Invasive Plants: Beyond Outlawed | 1:30 PM May 16

Plants that display a specific set of criteria can land on regulated federal and state invasive plant lists — but not all that meet those criteria are deemed invasive. Some of those plants are readily available at garden centers and commonly found in Illinois yards, despite a constant battle by landowners and conservation workers to keep them out of natural areas. In this session, learn how to identify these species of concern, find ways to control them in natural areas, and pick up ideas for alternatives for the home landscape.

Presenter: Chris Enroth, Extension Horticulture Educator