Non-native invasive plants may increase in productivity and may invade into new wetland areas.

Submitted by dshannon on

Non-native invasive species are already a problem in many wetland communities. Longer growing seasons disproportionally benefit invasives like reed canary grass, which can continue growing longer in the fall than native grasses and sedges. In addition, sedimentation and excess nutrients favor species like non-native cattail and Phragmites. Elevated levels of atmospheric CO2 may favor woody species, including invasive shrubs like glossy buckthorn. In general, non-native invasives species respond well to rapid environmental changes, including extreme storms, which can disturb the soil and spread propagules.