MA Adds JBP To List Of Banned Invasive Species

[CapeCodBonsai]

Forgive me if I missed a previous discussion on this but, it has just come to my attention that Japanese Black Pine has been added to the Massachusetts "prohibited plants list." JBP is now considered invasive in New England, posing a threat to native species.

We are still a few years away from the plants disappearing completely from store shelves. Nurseries have until December 2025 to phase out Japanese Black Pine.

My JBP have just become much more precious to me.

Will bonsai nurseries (like Bonsai West and New England Bonsai) get a pass on this ban?

https://www.mass.gov/doc/updates-to-the-massachusetts-prohibited-plant-list-november-2022/download

 

[Leprous Garden]

My guess is no because there'd be nothing to stop people buying bonsai and planting them in their yard.

 

[hampton]

There was some discussion on the topic a while back but if I recall correctly there wasn’t much in the way of an outcome. I’ll make a mental note to ask when I stop by NEBG or Bonsai West - if anyone happens to get there sooner I’m certainly interested in the answer. Both locations have a fair amount of black pine and would be impacted pretty significantly.

 

[PowerTap]

Time to start experimenting with native species I guess.

 

[PaulH]

Time to start experimenting with native species I guess.

I think JBP is over rated anyhow. I like Lodgepole, ponderosa, and Scots pine better.

 

[hampton]

I think JBP is over rated anyhow. I like Lodgepole, ponderosa, and Scots pine better.

I am hoping to get a few pitch pine to work with, just need to find a source or give collecting a try

 

[coltranem]

When I was last at NEBG I know Ashley was trying to get some clarification from the state. I assume Michael at Bonsai West did the same. From what I understand the only area it has been a problem was one of the islands. It would be nice for an exemption for trees in pots but I doubt it will happen.

 

[hampton]

Does anyone know if the legislation only prevents new JBP from being planted/introduced/sold or will potted JBP now considered contraband?

 

[coltranem]

The frequently asked questions doesn't addresss trees in pots but trees already n the landscape are not illegal.

Prohibited Plant List - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about the Massachusetts Prohibited Plant List

www.mass.gov

 

[CapeCodBonsai]

I am hoping to get a few pitch pine to work with, just need to find a source or give collecting a try

Give me a heads up next time you’re on the Cape, I’m sure we can find you something.