What Plants Should I Avoid in My Area?
A Utah Homeowner’s Guide to Smart and Safe Landscaping
Not all plants are created equal—especially when it comes to landscaping in Utah. Whether you live in Southern Utah’s desert climate or the more temperate Northern region, certain plants can become more of a burden than a beauty. Invasive species, water hogs, fire hazards, and plants that attract pests or threaten native ecosystems can all wreak havoc on your yard and your wallet.
This guide explores what plants to avoid in Utah landscaping, with a focus on climate challenges, water conservation, and ecological health. We’ll also recommend safe, beautiful alternatives that thrive in Utah's unique conditions.
🌵 Why It Matters: The Risks of Choosing the Wrong Plants
Utah’s diverse climates—from alpine elevations to dry deserts—demand thoughtful plant selection. Choosing the wrong species can lead to:
Excessive water use in an already drought-prone state
Soil degradation
Invasive spread that chokes out native plants
Increased fire risk
Pest infestations
Poor curb appeal from plants that just can’t thrive
Avoiding problematic plants saves you time, money, and maintenance—and protects your neighborhood’s natural balance.
🌿 Invasive Plants to Avoid in Utah Landscapes
Invasive species are aggressive growers that outcompete native plants. Many were introduced for ornamental purposes but have since escaped cultivation and spread into wild areas.
1. Tamarisk (Saltcedar)
Problem: Invades riparian areas, depletes water sources, and increases soil salinity.
Why Avoid It: High water usage and known to disrupt ecosystems.
Better Option: Try Desert Willow or Serviceberry for drought-tolerant trees that benefit wildlife.
2. Russian Olive
Problem: Displaces native vegetation, reduces wildlife habitat, and is difficult to remove.
Why Avoid It: Spreads rapidly and chokes out beneficial species.
Better Option: Use Hawthorn or Crabapple for hardy, non-invasive landscape trees.
3. Purple Loosestrife
Problem: Destroys wetlands, alters water flow, and outcompetes native wetland plants.
Why Avoid It: Despite its pretty flowers, it’s devastating to native habitats.
Better Option: Replace with Bee Balm or Rocky Mountain Penstemon, both pollinator-friendly and safe.
🖼️ Image suggestion: Side-by-side photos of purple loosestrife and bee balm, with a “choose this, not that” label
📍 Placement: Right under this section
💦 High Water-Use Plants You Should Skip
Utah is a water-wise state, and many cities now offer rebates or incentives for replacing thirsty grass or plants with low-water alternatives. These water-heavy species don’t fit the bill.
4. Kentucky Bluegrass Lawns
Problem: Needs 40–50 inches of water per year in a state that averages only 13 inches.
Why Avoid It: One of the most water-demanding choices for Utah homeowners.
Better Option: Switch to Buffalograss, Blue Grama, or native fescue blends.
5. Hydrangeas
Problem: Require consistent moisture and shaded, humid environments.
Why Avoid It: High-maintenance in Utah’s dry air.
Better Option: Choose Snowball Viburnum or Spirea for a similar look with better drought tolerance.
6. Hostas
Problem: Thrive in moist, shaded conditions with rich soil.
Why Avoid It: Constant struggle to keep healthy in Utah landscapes.
Better Option: Use Desert Marigold, Lamb’s Ear, or Creeping Thyme in shaded areas.
📸 Image suggestion: Infographic comparing lawn watering needs for Kentucky Bluegrass vs Buffalograss
📍 Placement: End of this section
🔥 Plants That Increase Wildfire Risk
In fire-prone areas of Utah, particularly in foothills or canyon communities, fire-wise landscaping is essential. Avoid planting materials that ignite easily or burn intensely.
7. Juniper (Utah or ornamental varieties)
Problem: High resin content makes it a firestarter.
Why Avoid It: One spark can set off a chain reaction near buildings or dry brush.
Better Option: Use Sumac, Ninebark, or low-growing native grasses.
8. Pine and Spruce Trees (near structures)
Problem: Needles and resin ignite easily; dry needles accumulate around base.
Why Avoid It: Not ideal near homes in fire zones.
Better Option: Plant deciduous trees like Ash or Oak, which are less flammable.
9. Ornamental Grasses (unmanaged)
Problem: Tall, dry stalks become quick-burning fuel.
Why Avoid It: Without regular cutting, they can spread fires rapidly.
Better Option: Choose native bunch grasses and cut them back seasonally.
🖼️ Image suggestion: Diagram showing “defensible space” zones around a home with plant suggestions
📍 Placement: After this section
🐛 Plants That Attract Pests or Disease
Some plants, though visually appealing, are magnets for pests or more prone to disease in Utah’s dry climate.
10. Aspen Trees in Low Elevation
Problem: Susceptible to borers, canker, and leaf spot diseases.
Why Avoid It: Not well-suited for urban or low-altitude Utah landscapes.
Better Option: Opt for Hackberry or Gambel Oak.
11. Box Elder Trees
Problem: Attract box elder bugs—annoying pests that enter homes in fall.
Why Avoid It: They’re messy, weak-wooded, and pest-prone.
Better Option: Replace with Honeylocust or Maple.
12. Lilacs (in humid microclimates)
Problem: Prone to powdery mildew and borers if not well-spaced or pruned.
Why Avoid It: Can become high-maintenance in tight or shaded areas.
Better Option: Try Smokebush, Mock Orange, or Native Currants.
🌎 Plants That Harm Native Ecosystems
Certain plants can escape cultivation and interfere with natural habitats or local biodiversity.
13. English Ivy
Problem: Chokes out native ground cover and climbs trees, harming bark.
Why Avoid It: Grows aggressively and harbors rodents.
Better Option: Replace with Creeping Oregon Grape or Bearberry.
14. Chinese Wisteria
Problem: Twists around trees and fences, destroys structures and competes with native vines.
Why Avoid It: Invasive and difficult to contain.
Better Option: Use Clematis or Trumpet Vine for flowering vines.
15. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)
Problem: Displaces native wildflowers and provides low nutrition for pollinators.
Why Avoid It: Not as beneficial as it appears.
Better Option: Choose Milkweed, Bee Balm, or Liatris for pollinator support.
📸 Image suggestion: Close-up of butterfly bush labeled “low-nutrition” next to a native milkweed with monarch butterfly
📍 Placement: Midway through this section
🛠 Final Tips: How to Choose the Right Plants
Before making any major landscaping decision, ask yourself:
✅ Is this plant drought-tolerant?
✅ Is it native or adapted to Utah’s climate?
✅ Will it need pesticides or lots of water to survive?
✅ Is it safe for pets and children?
✅ Does it support local birds, bees, and pollinators?
Consulting with a certified local landscaper or nursery can help you identify the best plants for your specific microclimate.
Conclusion: Build a Healthy, Beautiful, Sustainable Landscape
Avoiding the wrong plants is just as important as choosing the right ones. By steering clear of water hogs, fire hazards, invasive species, and pest-prone trees, you protect your property and help Utah thrive.
Choose native, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance alternatives—and your yard will reward you with color, texture, and vitality year after year.
🌿 Need help choosing the right plants for your property?
We offer expert guidance, plant selection services, and full landscape design tailored to your Utah climate and soil. [Contact us for a consultation.]
