MADISON – Gardeners sometimes can plant a specimen that grows TOO well.

To prevent these aggressive plants from damaging a natural habitat, Madison Beautification and Tree Board has scheduled the Invasive Plant Workshop and demonstration (weather permitting) on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Horizon Elementary School at 7855 Old Madison Pike will host the event in the media center.

The board is presenting the workshop in partnership with Keep Alabama Beautiful. The public is welcome to attend the free workshop.

“To protect our natural resources at greenways, schools and even residential backyards, it is imperative that we identify and control invasive plant species,” Beautification Board President: Amber Braman said. “Ecologist Soos Weber will present a program to illustrate the species of concern, prior to an outdoor demonstration in Horizon’s Outdoor Classroom, weather permitting.”

The demo will show practical and ecological ways to remove invasive plants. “Weather permitting, even a goat that loves children may help with the cleanup,” Braman said. “Feel free to bring your garden gloves, protective goggles and a folding saw.” A bow saw is not recommended for this type of work.

Keep Alabama Beautiful will provide trash bags.

The phrase ‘invasive plants’ usually refers to any shrub, vine or tree that is not indigenous to a region. When introduced to its new habitat, the invasive plant grows so abundantly and rapidly that it can be a threat to native vegetation. In the Deep South, kudzu and privet hedge are two prime examples.

Weber earned a master’s degree at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Before and after earning that degree, Weber has been instrumental in preserving many of the natural resources and native plants in North Alabama, including the Walls of Jericho, Hays Nature Preserve and Cathedral Caverns. Soos lives with her husband, cats and many native plants on Monte Sano.

The 2019 officer positions for the beautification board are President Amber Braman, First Vice Chair Chris Carpenter, Second Vice Chair Mitzi Adams, Treasurer Karen Lawler, Secretary Julie Ray, Pride of Madison Brandon Daugherty, Lisa Thomas, Tenesha Thomas and City Council Liaison Gerald Clark.

For more information, email keepmadisonbeautiful@gmail.com or visit keepmadisonbeautiful.org.