Invasive species entering Finland via potted plants pose unstoppable threat

Finland is seeing an accelerating influx of invasive species, often arriving through potted plants and flowers imported from Europe, with no reliable way to remove all pests from them, according to a report by Yle.

Sannakajsa Velmala, a senior researcher at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), warns that the most alarming scenario would involve a fast-breeding, winter-resistant pest capable of devastating large agricultural or forest areas. Such a species, if introduced without natural predators, could spread rapidly if authorities fail to contain it.

Global trade and climate change are accelerating the spread of invasive species, Velmala said. Warmer winters remove the natural barrier that cold seasons once provided against non-native organisms.

Finland’s forests are dominated by just three tree species—spruce, pine, and birch—making them particularly vulnerable. A fast-spreading pathogen or pest targeting these could cause widespread damage, as seen in North America, Velmala noted.

Authorities are aware of the risks but face significant challenges in monitoring and prevention. The free movement of goods within the EU complicates border controls, and resources for inspections are limited. Additionally, completely eradicating bacteria or microscopic organisms from imported plants is impossible with current methods.

Velmala emphasized that while businesses may intend to follow best practices, treatments like disinfection or heat exposure are not feasible for all imported plants.