Invasive Phragmites

What is phragmites?
- Crowds out native vegetation resulting in lower plant diversity
- Provides poor habitat and food for local wildlife
- Growth can impact local water levels and drainage infrastructure
- Increase fire risk as stands are composed of dead stalks
- Causes increased risk to road safety due toreduced sightlines
- Interferes with agricultural crop growth
- Do not purposely plant it. Invasive phragmites is available at garden and horticultural centres. Learn to identify the difference between invasive and native species or select other native grassess for gardening.
- Avoid the spread of seeds to new sites. When leaving an area containing phragmites, brush off clothing and clean equipment.
- Do not compost invasive phragmites. The seeds and rhizomes (root system) can survive and start growing in compost. Cut plants can be left in place to decompose.