The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has outlined its ongoing work to tackle harmful non-native plant species.
In a reply to Rushen MHK Juan Watterson, DEFA Minster Clare Barber said invasive plants remain a “constant concern”, with the potential to spread rapidly, damage native habitats, harm infrastructure and create significant economic costs if left uncontrolled.
She stressed that responsibility for control largely lies with landowners, who are encouraged to act early to prevent spread.
Several invasive species, including rhododendron, cotoneaster and Japanese knotweed, are listed under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife Act, meaning they must not be planted or allowed to grow in the wild.
Invasive Plant Species
However, some listed species can still be purchased from nurseries, placing greater emphasis on public awareness and responsible gardening.
DEFA has installed information postcards at garden centres and provides online guidance and fact sheets to help identify and manage invasive plants.
The Department also runs annual awareness campaigns, including participation in Invasive Species Week in June, working alongside UK and Irish partners.
It collaborates with local environmental groups such as Manx Nature Conservation Forum and Friends of the Neb, which coordinate volunteer removal efforts.
Officials also review planning applications, advise landowners, and carry out control work in government-owned land, while warning that reinfestation remains a challenge without coordinated action across all land ownership.
The full written answer can be found here.
