Exotic problem plants are plants that were introduced to us after 1500, either consciously or unconsciously, as a result of human activities and have become established in nature without human intervention. These so-called neophytes are divided into invasive and other neophytes, with the invasive species spreading so strongly and rapidly that they displace native species and can become a major problem for human health, for infrastructure buildings or for agriculture and forestry. The longer you wait to combat them, the more difficult it becomes. Any occurrence of neophytes can become a source of dispersal. Some of these plants are prohibited invasive neophytes and may not be replanted.

Together we can combat and stop the spread of invasive neophytes:

• Avoid exotic problem plants, there are plenty of native, attractive alternatives.
• Check your garden carefully and remove existing invasive neophytes.
• Dispose of the invasive neophytes in the garbage, not in the garden compost. Make sure that no seeds, fruits or root parts are lost during transportation.

The following invasive neophytes are often found in gardens:

Summer lilac (Buddleja davidii): It is also known as the butterfly bush because its nectar attracts butterflies but does not provide food for the caterpillars. As a result, it endangers our native butterflies! The summer lilac forms dense stands and prevents the growth of native herbs, shrubs and trees. The biodiversity in these locations disappears in no time. Remove the entire plant and dispose of the seeds and rhizome with the garbage. You can plant a black elderberry, common coneflower or common barberry in the vacated space. The butterflies will thank you.

North American goldenrod (Solidago canadenis and gigantea) These exotic plants from North America are forbidden to sell, replant and transplant (= forbidden invasive plant). It is mandatory to prevent the spread of these plants, as North American goldenrods reproduce efficiently by runners and seeds. Due to their rapid growth and dense populations, they displace our unique native species. Remove the plant with its roots before flowering and dispose of all plant material in the garbage. Suitable native alternatives are St. John's wort, common loosestrife and large-flowered mullein.

Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): Cherry laurel, especially the leaves and berries, is poisonous. Birds eat the berries anyway and thus promote the uncontrolled spread into semi-natural areas. With its dense foliage, the cherry laurel displaces any undergrowth and crowds out our native biodiversity. Remove the entire plant including the roots and dispose of the material with the garbage. Suitable replacement plants are the common privet, yew or cornelian cherry.