Conn. nurseries phasing out some invasive plants

MONROE, Conn. (AP) - A group representing Connecticut's nursery and landscape companies says the businesses are phasing out some types of a certain plant because of its invasive potential.

The Connecticut Nursery and Landscape Association says the growers and sellers plan a three-year phase-out of 25 types of Japanese barberry. Eighteen less-invasive versions of the plant will still be available.

The barberry plant is popular in Connecticut because it holds up well in most gardens and offers a colorful contrast to green lawns. But some barberry is invasive, meaning it crowds other plants and robs them of sunlight and nutrients.

The nursery association presented its voluntary phase-out plan this summer to the Connecticut Invasive Plants Council, which has endorsed it.