"An "invasive species" is defined as a species that is non-native (or alien) to the ecosystem under consideration; and, whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. (Executive Order 13112)" and so I really appreciate Jeff bringing the topic of non-native invasives to ADN readers. We have all seen purple vetch obliterate our native fireweed & spread into the forest so we should carefully consider the plants we cultivate in our gardens.

Having said that, not all non-natives are invasive. I plant and and grow a vegetable/flower garden each year and 98% of the flowers are non-native but none are invasive. How do I know this? - because I check them against non-native invasive plant lists and I pay attention to what they do in my garden. Please see below links. http://plants.alaska.gov/pdf/altplantsbrochure.pdf and http://accs.uaa.alaska.edu/invasives-species/non-native-plant-species-list/ These websites are great resources.