It’s estimated that more than 80% of the invasive plant species found in Indiana have been planted by those in the landscape trade. That includes very invasive and hardy non-native species like the Callery pear tree and the Burning Bush. These non-native invasive species grow quickly and are extremely resistant to landscape cultivation. They quickly take over local environments, crowding out Indiana native plants. That means we lose native plants, and with them the vital ecological services they provide.Invasive non-native plants do more than that. They also cost a lot of money to keep under control. In 2019, the Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation department spent over $140,000 on tackling invasive plant species. Callery pears are particularly prevalent in Indiana because they’re extremely adaptable. Their fruits are also ingested by birds, who disperse the seeds to new places.You can check out the Indiana Invasive Species Council for a complete list of the invasive plants that you should avoid planting in the state. However, it’s important to note that not all non-native plants are invasive, and many will be fine to plant in your garden.