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MEET THE ENEMY
Green is not always good. Mississippi landscapes are encountering growing threats from some non-native plants. Invasive plants introduced in this region decades ago for agricultural or landscaping purposes are now a serious concern for our parks, our public green spaces, and our own backyards. More and more, experts warn, Jackson's beautiful native trees, plants and wildlife are losing the fight against these aggressive plants, vines, trees and insects that consume nutrients, disrupt the ecological balance and disfigure the outdoor world where Mississippians hike, bike, picnic, ride horses and mountain bikes, or just relax. Some invasive plants are quite beautiful with colorful flowers and pleasing scents. But make no mistake: They are quietly lethal. If left unchecked, future generations might never glimpse the forest floor, as alien undergrowth shrouds and chokes trees large and small.

WHAT’S BEING DONE
Inspired by national and international efforts now underway, Weed Wrangle Jackson represents a fresh new push to stem the tide of biological pollution in our area. The goal is two-fold: restoration and preservation. Organizers seek to raise awareness of the “green scourge” before more of our native plants lose the fight for the light and nutrients they require to survive. The Garden Club of Jackson, a member of The Garden Club of America and other planners are working hard to pull in other local groups to establish a corps of organized resistance to this blight on our environment.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
First of all, please consider participating in the first-ever Weed Wrangle Jackson event, set for Saturday, September 17th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at LeFleur’s Bluff State Park on Lakeland Drive in Jackson. We will be removing the invasive tallow trees which now surround the lake and obstruct the view of the lake. For more information, please call 601-946-2834 or email cherylbwelch@gmail.com. You can also make a difference by removing any invasive plants that appear on your property; this prevents their inevitable spread to other yards and public spaces. Always try to landscape with native plants and avoid the purchase of potentially invasive species sold by some nurseries. A number of the traits that make plants highly desirable ornamentals also make them ideal weeds. Finally, help us spread the word about the broadening fight against invasive plants. Knowledge, after all, is power.

For more info contact Cheryl Welch, President, Garden Club of Jackson, at 601-946-2834.