Got Nature? Blog

Do you have invasive plants in your landscaping? Tippecanoe County Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting an Invasive Plant Swap on September 25th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds Show Arena.

This free event offers an opportunity for community members to bring in invasive landscaping plants and exchange them for native species that support pollinators and local ecosystems. While the event flyer highlights five common invasive plants (burning bush, callery pear, Japanese barberry, wintercreeper and periwinkle) residents are welcome to bring any invasive plant used in landscaping. If you’re not sure whether your plant qualifies, feel free to reach out in advance or bring it with you for identification.

Native plants will be available while supplies last. Early arrival is recommended.

Replacing invasives with native plants is a great way to support local wildlife, improve soil and water quality, and help restore ecological balance. The deadline to apply is August 1, 2025.

For further information and the application, visit the event page on the Tippecanoe County SWCD website.

Resources:
Invasive Species, Playlist
Invasive Plant Species Identification, Video
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Indiana Department of Natural Resources: Invasive Species
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Episode 11 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
What Nurseries Need to Know About the Invasive Species Regulation, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
ID That Tree – Video Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Tree Pruning Essentials Video, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture

Tippecanoe County SWCD