Learning  and Identifying Invasive Plants
This can be challenging.  There are numerous species with an established foothold and new ones finding their way here regularly. So the landscape is constantly changing. The following categories may assist with focusing on the invasive plant species most relevant to your situation.

• Private landowners/gardeners: plants to avoid
• Natural area managers / Public land managers:   plants to focus on
• Natural area managers / Public land managers:  newcomers to be aware of
• Landowners / Agriculture:  plants to focus on
• Department of Natural Resources Invasive plant list:  comprehensive list for Illinois
• Illinois Law:  banned noxious and exotic plants

Many sources are available to become educated about invasive plants. Choose one from a reputable provider such as a government organization or educational institution that is specific to your geographic location.  

Steps to Identify Invasive Plants
To determine if a suspicious plant is an invasive species, try the following steps:

1. Use available online resources to identify and research the plant.
2. Contact your local University of Illinois Extension Office for assistance. Often the Master Gardeners or Master Naturalists can provide identification and eradication guidance if a photograph or sample is provided.
3. Contact local botanical gardens. In central Illinois, the Missouri Botanical Gardens Plant Finder can be very useful.