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Experts and residents urge stronger native-plant rules and a ban on invasive bamboo
Summary
Public hearings on ZTA 2510 (native-plant landscaping) and Bill 26-25 (invasive vegetation, bamboo) drew dozens of speakers who urged 50%+ native species mandates, clearer definitions tied to Maryland's native plant program, nursery sourcing support, and enforceable measures and assistance for bamboo removal.
A large panel of horticulturalists, conservation groups, landscapers and community volunteers testified at council public hearings about two related measures: ZTA 2510, which would require 50% of required landscaping to be native species, and Bill 26‑25, which would regulate invasive plants and prohibit the sale of invasive bamboo in Montgomery County.
Speakers urged the council to tie any native-plant definition to an authoritative list such as the Maryland Native Plant Program/Plant Atlas and to allow cultivars that retain ecological function while excluding invasive or highly modified cultivars that reduce host‑plant value. "Native plants are not just beautiful, they are essential to the health of our natural ecosystems," said Sylvia Dis, a longtime resident and volunteer. Several speakers also urged that the county support developers and landscapers with access to nursery supply and a clear, searchable species list.
On bamboo, witnesses described recurring neighborhood impacts and asked the council to add enforcement tools and homeowner assistance for removal and to require containment where bamboo exists at lot lines. Other speakers, including county farm and quarry interests, warned the council about the economic and operational burdens of retrofit removal on long‑standing properties and urged exemptions or narrower setback rules. County Executive staff testified in favor of the intent of Bill 26‑25 while offering technical clarifications for enforcement and compliance.
