It is difficult getting inspiration this time of the year when everything is frozen solid outside, but while I was sorting out a few papers the other day I came across an article on invasive plants and suggestions for alternate plants to use.  I was quite surprised to see what was on the list and I thought I would pass this information along. The article noted though that the extent of an invasive plant will vary based on the local climate and growing conditions in your area.

Highlights of the Invasive Plants List:

• Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila Paniculata) 
• Common Periwinkle (Vinca Minor)
• English Ivy (Hedera Helix)
• Bachelor’s Buttons (Centaurea Cyanus)
• Butterfly Bush (Buddleja Davidii)
• Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum Vulgare)
• Orange Hawkweed (Hieracium Aurantiacum)
• Scotch Broom (Cytisus Scoparis)
• Spurges (Euphorbia Esula, E. Myrsinities, E. Cyparissias)
• Tamarisk (Tamarix Chinensis, T. Ramosissima)
• Toadflax (Linaria Vulgaris)
• Yellow Flag Iris (Iris Pseudacorus)

To find out further about this topic you can visit the website www.bcinvasives.ca.

Meanwhile in my garden I am so glad I added extra mulch to the plants and shrubs that I have stored for my daughter and the plants in the garage are doing well getting protection from the severe frost.  It’s great being able to pop in and out of the garage to collect herbs when I need them.  

The amaryllis bulb (recycled from last year) I planted two weeks ago is putting out some strong green shoots so I am hoping that it will bloom in time for Christmas.