Stop the spread and help keep invasive species out of Canada

• Learn about the invasive species in your region
• Check the trees and gardens on your property
• Know what to look for. This video provides guidance on how to check your trees.
• Clean your gardening tools and patio furniture

Studies indicate that more than half of the invasive plant species in Canada were brought in for crops, gardens, erosion control and other purposes^{Footnote 1}.

• Look through the list of regulated pests in Canada to see if the species you're considering are allowed to be imported into Canada and whether certain requirements apply.
• Do not buy a seed if you can't identify it by the plant's scientific name, or you aren't sure of its invasive potential. Seeds sold in mixed packages, such as generic wildflower mixes, can be a problem.
• Buy your seeds from trusted sources, a wide variety of seeds are available online from foreign suppliers that may be invasive to Canada.

Even though certain seeds are available on a website, it doesn't mean that the plant species is safe for native plants and animals in Canada or is allowed to be imported.

If you receive unsolicited seeds:

• put the seeds and packaging in a sealed bag inside a second sealed bag
• place in your regular garbage that goes to a landfill
• refrain from planting, flushing, or composting the seeds to avoid them sprouting and spreading

If you have already planted them or put them in the compost:

• remove the seeds and any plants that may have grown from them
• double-bag the seeds or plants in tightly sealed plastic bags, and place in your regular garbage that goes to a landfill

Before you go somewhere, check for insect larvae, eggs and adult insects like beetles and moths. Remember to clean your:

• shoes
• outdoor gear
• tarps
• RVs, camper vans or trailers
• ships, boats, cargo and containers
• other outdoor materials before travelling in and out of regulated areas

Even your pets can carry pests with them, be sure to check them for mud, debris and seeds.

Firewood and its bark can be infested with insect eggs or larvae. If you move firewood, for example from your home to your cottage or campsite, you could unintentionally spread a pest like emerald ash borer to a previously pest-free area. Help protect our forests by following these firewood guidelines:

• Buy and burn your firewood that was cut less than 80 kilometres away from where it is being sold
• Know where the wood is coming from - don't be afraid to ask the local supplier where it came from
• Don't move firewood - just because you can't see signs of pests doesn't mean they aren't there
  • Understand the hazards of moving firewood

Arriving from outside Canada? Be aware of what you can and cannot bring and always declare the following items when crossing the border:

• Food products
• Plants and soil
• Wooden items (such as souvenirs, sculptures, frames, etc.)
• Seeds or seed packets
• Animal items

You might think these items are harmless, but they can carry pests that can damage Canada's plants. Learn more about how you can keep Canada's plants and animals safe.