Invasive plants seem to be everywhere.  An example is Japanese Barberry. It is growing in our woodlands, fields as well as our gardens. Barberry has been shown to be favored by the Black-legged tick which frequently carries lime disease. This can be a threat to your pets and family. 

Another invasive insect is also on its way. The Spotted Lanternfly is now in Massachusetts. This pest will affect many host plants including grapes, apples, plums, cherries, peaches and others, even pines.

And how about Invasive Earth Worms. Yes, I said worms that you might think are good for the soil but actually are threatening our perennial ecosystems such as our forests. They consume the organic top (duff) layers of the soil very quickly and that reduces biodiversity and diminishes the habitat for other species. The worms have already been seen locally. Do your own research.

That’s enough depressing information for now.