You want a well-kept yard even if you're not a gardener. Before you choose plants from your local garden center, be aware of any state-banned plants.
Japanese knotweed was imported to the U.S. in the late 1800s as a beautiful plant, and gardeners still plant it unaware of the damage it can cause,
Kudzu, an invader, outcompetes natives. It was termed as "the plant that ate the South."
Multiflora rose is another invasive prohibited in some states. This plant forms "dense thickets that invade pastures and crowd out native species."
English ivy, another invasive plant, may be covering areas of your home or yard without your knowledge. It grows in landscaped areas under various light and soil conditions.
Purple loosestrife is widespread. Due to its harmful effects on plants and propensity to escape cultivation, most U.S. states ban the purple flowery plant.
Giant hogweed, which may cause severe skin burns and blisters when exposed to sunlight, is banned in New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.