Canadian municipalities are taking action to prevent the sale of invasive plants in local garden centers, while urging the establishment of a national regulatory framework for the horticultural sector. The threat of invasive plants to biodiversity nationwide has prompted efforts to address gaps in the current regulatory landscape, which varies by region. Canada aims to reduce the rate of introduction and establishment of invasive species by at least 50% by 2030.
The Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR) is advocating for the creation of a federal regulatory body overseeing the horticultural industry and the development of a national database cataloging invasive plant species and associated risks in different areas. CCIPR co-founder Cathy Kavassalis emphasized the importance of informing the public about potential harm posed by invasive plants, proposing measures similar to those in place for other products.
While some invasive plants are regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) under the Plant Protection Act, provinces and territories also have their own legislation addressing invasive species. The CFIA adopts a species- and risk-based approach rather than a blanket prohibition on all invasive plants, restricting the import, sale, possession, and movement of regulated pests sold for ornamental purposes.
In response to local initiatives, various cities have taken steps to restrict the sale of invasive plants. For instance, Nanaimo and Surrey have pursued bans on certain plant sales, and London’s environmental committee recommended providing information to customers on invasive plants and animals at the point of sale. However, advocates like Kavassalis argue that addressing this issue solely at the municipal level leads to fragmented solutions and resource inefficiency.
Advocates are calling on the federal government to take a more comprehensive approach to regulating the horticultural trade to meet the 2030 target of reducing invasive species. Studies have highlighted the role of ornamental non-native plants in introducing invasive species, emphasizing the need for a shared national database to inform stakeholders about regional risks. Jim Hole, a horticulture expert, emphasized the willingness of garden centers to support efforts to prevent invasive plant spread, noting the minimal impact on businesses by removing invasive species from sales.
Native plant advocate Lorraine Johnson stressed the influence of nurseries in promoting biodiversity loss by selling non-native plants that disrupt local ecosystems. The regulation of garden centers not only helps combat “plant blindness” among consumers but also encourages a deeper connection between gardeners and the natural environment.