Invasive rosea still found across Finland despite ban

Despite a years-old ban, invasive rugosa roses continue to appear across Finland, according to a report by Yle.

Municipalities bear much of the responsibility for controlling invasive species, as they often own large areas of land. However, resources are limited, said Päivi Paavilainen, environmental director at the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities. Some municipalities dedicate more funding to the effort, but often the work is handled alongside other tasks by parks and green space staff during the busy summer season.

In Nokia, city maintenance chief Antti Sorvali said the focus is currently on giant hogweed and lupines, though rugosa roses still require attention. The city has dozens of infestations, ranging from small patches to larger clusters, with additional cases appearing along state roads and private properties.

Leena Hamberg, a leading researcher at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), noted that invasive plants are aggressive competitors for growing space and can spread efficiently to new areas. Even with control efforts, eradication is difficult.

Rugosa roses, lupines, giant hogweed, and rowan-honeysuckle are among the banned species. Four years ago, Yle reported on Nokia’s struggle with rugosa roses after a three-year transition period following their prohibition. While the situation has improved, the plants remain visible in many locations.

In Nokia, invasive species control prioritizes areas with significant ecological value, such as the edges of meadows and heathlands. Rugosa roses require heavier machinery for removal compared to lupines or giant hogweed, which can sometimes be pulled by hand. Removed invasive plants are disposed of either by burying at least one meter deep in a landfill or as mixed waste—never as bio-waste.

Hamberg urged property owners to manage invasive species on their own land and report sightings via the Vieraslajit.fi website. She acknowledged that while the task is challenging, better recognition and more effective control methods are needed.

Nokia is also engaging residents in the effort, with three public weeding events planned in city parks this summer. The target is giant hogweed, which likely arrived in the area via garden waste or soil transport and spreads rapidly through flowing water. Lupines, though visually appealing, displace native plants and harm pollinators, said Ria Kivirinne, a nature conservation planner.

Outo-sourced control services are an option for urgent cases, but Paavilainen noted that this approach is costly and diverts funds from other public area maintenance.