ACT Parks and Conservation has announced that its next weed swap for native plants is to be held this weekend, 3 and 4 November.
Invasive Plants Coordinator at the Agency, Steve Taylor said Spring was the perfect opportunity to rid gardens of invasive weeds and replace them with bush-friendly native alternatives for free.
“Canberrans are very lucky to have a number of great nature reserves and parks right on our doorstep, but it means we need to be mindful of invasive species leaving our yards and affecting our natural environment,” Mr Taylor said.
“The ACT has over 450 kilometres of urban interface with bushland so we must make every effort to protect our special places, and preserve our native fauna and flora.”
He said invasive weeds could enter bushland and compete with native plants forcing birds and other animals to look for somewhere else to live.
“Whether you have an established garden, a yard that is a bit out of control or live close to a nature reserve, have a look around and see what invasive species you can swap for some beautiful native plants,” Mr Taylor said.
“Established gardens have older style plants, many of which we now know are invasive, such as Privet, Cotoneaster, Pyracantha (Firethorn) and Hawthorn.
He said even some plants from nurseries were known to be invasive such as Gazania, Freesia, Mexican Feather Grass, Harlequin Flower and Spanish Heath.
“The weed swap not only helps control weeds, but educates people about identifying and treating invasive weeds in a responsible way,” Mr Taylor said.
“A range of attractive, native plants will be available for swapping, including small trees such as wattles, shrubs including Correa, groundcovers like paper daisies and native tussock grasses.”
He said the Weed Swap will be held from 8.30am to 4.30pm at Corkhills Green Waste Recycling Centre at Mugga Lane in the south and CSG Green Waste Recycling Centre on Parkwood Road in Belconnen.
Further information about invasive plants can be found at this PS News link.
