Spread Of Noxious Weeds

French broom is a shrub with bright yellow, fragrant flowers and was once favored as an ornamental plant. Now however, it is no longer sold through the horticultural industry, and is listed as a noxious weed in Oregon, California and Hawaii, along with being added as a Class A weed species in Washington this year. French broom is fast growing and spreads quite rapidly, causing it to outcompete native plants. It’s a prime example of an invasive plant that can end up causing serious problems in fields, pastures, or urban settings. All states have a list of problematic plants. With summer being the prime time for family vacations and cross country road trips it’s good to be aware of that, and that those “beautiful plants” you see growing along the roadside might not be the best thing to bring back as a souvenir. That lovely plant might end up being not only your yard’s, but your state’s worst nightmare. Don’t be the cause of “weeds gone wild”. One of the best defenses against spreading noxious weeds across your state and neighboring states begins with you. For more information on identifying noxious weeds visit your state’s Department of Agriculture website.