Invasive species such as buckthorn, honeysuckle, garlic mustard, and Japanese stiltgrass are expected to expand in newly formed gaps and compete with native species in northern hardwood forests.

Invasive species such as buckthorn, honeysuckle, and garlic mustard are already threats to some forests, and these species are expected to increase in abundance under climate change, particularly where forests are disturbed. Invasive species can also impair regeneration of native species and alter understory and midstory composition.