The horticultural trade’s perceptions of invasive plants in Türkiye
The horticulture trade can be a major pathway for the movement of alien plant species throughout the world. Although the benefits and contributions of ornamental plants to human well-being (social, psychological, economic) are undeniable, it is essential to know at an early stage which of these plants could have a negative impact on areas where they are planted. A study was conducted in Yalova Province, an important area for the production of ornamental plants in the south-eastern part of the Marmara Region in north-western Türkiye. Face to face surveys were carried out with ornamental plant nursery owners to explore their perceptions of non-native ornamental plant taxa. The vast majority of producers (70%) had heard the term ‘invasive plant’ before. However, the concept of invasive plants is considered in the context of plants other than for production for ornamental purposes, i.e., weeds. There is a lack of awareness among producers about the possible impacts caused by non-native taxa and their management. In addition to the surveys, all ornamental plant taxa produced in the study area were listed from producers catalogues. Of the 121 plants produced, 92 taxa were non-native, 23 were native, 6 were non-native hybrids. 31 taxa (11 taxa native and 20 taxa non-native to Türkiye) were found to be invasive in other regions of the world. Awareness raising can act to increase knowledge to all stakeholders and the public on the potential problems associated with non-native plants in the horticultural industry.
Sources
Yazlık A, Ulutaş OC, Dehnen-Schmutz K (2026) Ornamental plant producers’ perceptions of invasive plants: nonnative taxa highlighted in Yalova Province, Türkiye. Invasive Plant Science and Management 19, e15. doi: 10.1017/inp.2026.10048