Horticultural Xenophobia

The RHS is working in conjunction with horticultural organisations across Britain to submit evidence regarding the proposed EU regulation on invasive non-native species.

The regulation will create a list of species for which strict controls will be put in place, however the RHS is keen for transparency in the decision making process, and will insist on an evidence based verdict.

Voting will take place in April at the European Parliament, and would effectively ban the transportation and possession of certain invasive, non-native species. The regulation will supersede current controls in place in England.

At present, it is unclear which species will be affected by any new ruling. The RHS favours a “black list” approach that will see plants that pose a clear environmental threat being restricted. RHS experts are encouraging the EU to engage with them and draw on its internationally recognised expertise in taxonomy.