Biological Attacks Used to Curb Kudzu

With the short, mild weather of this past winter, it looks as though weeds are getting a head start this spring. As for the south, the main weed everyone dreads is the choking, enveloping kudzu vine. The invasive plant takes over just about any field, climbs tall timbers and is a nuisance to eradicate.

Most landowners in states like Mississippi and Alabama have done just about anything to eliminate the destructive plant.  Though the vines are easy to mow or mulch, the mechanical method doesn’t seem to be the most effective kudzu removal technique. In fact, time spent plowing over the green foliage doesn’t expel the root of the plant is likely wasted as surface sheering doesn’t expel the root crown.

Biological Growth Control

Herbicides may be effective in the long run, but they require dousing gallons upon gallons of chemical over a period of a few years before results are successful. That cost adds up very quickly and can even affect surrounding plants and groundwater sources. However, there are a few biological attacks that arborists have attempted to parry the kudzu plant into submission. Here are just a few new kudzu removal techniques that may be worth trying this year.

Bacterial Blights

In the past, blights have caused detrimental damage to large sources of crop plants including, potatoes, corn, tomatoes and apple trees.  Blights are naturally occurring pathogenic organisms that affect plants through mold and other water-born fungi.  They affect plant tissue by causing complete chlorosis, which is depriving the plant of essential nutrients. Soon the plant tissue begins to brown and die. Applying blights in a controlled manner to kudzu plants has been tested as a positive candidate for biological growth control and ultimately utilized as kudzu removal.

Insect Herbivory

Insect herbivory is simply a method of introducing controlled amounts of insects that are anatomically adapted to eating particular plants. By applying this biological attack, specific insects are encouraged to devour parts of the kudzu plant therefore causing significant damage and even killing the plant. Because kudzu is a native plant to southern Asia, and not to southern United States, there are few known insects that are natural predators to the plant. Therefore, research is being conducted to find the appropriate insects to use in controlling the growth and aiding in eliminating the devastating kudzu vine.

Seed Predation

Similar to herbivory, seed predation is a biological method of introducing natural predators to consume the kudzu plant. By consuming the seeds of the plant, the insects not only chomp through the leaves and vines of the plant, they interrupt the germination of the plant and alleviate the amount of regrowth or spreading of the vine. So far, field tests have found that more than twenty-five species of insects are feeding on the kudzu plant in areas of North Carolina. Of these predators, the sawfly and several different leaf-eating beetles were identified. The best thing about these predators is that they have no known hosts.

With several different studies being conducted across the southeast, there stands a forerunner as studies hone in on an effective method of biological control. The fungal pathogen known as Mythrocium verrucaria has shown the best results against kudzu vines. The fungus has been used as a pesticide on other plants and grows well in temperatures matching those of the southeastern region. The organism does not venture beyond the areas in which they are introduced, keeping surrounding vegetation and bordering crops safe from consumption. However, the one drawback is that the fungus is highly toxic to mammals. Extreme caution must be used in applying this type of biological attack, which is why it has not yet been released as an accepted kudzu removal strategy. Hopes are that the pathogen can be applied in closely moderated areas.

Photo courtesy: SweetCrisis

Weed Out Invasive Missouri Trees

Ozark National Park - Vintage Photo

The state of Missouri may have one of the best conservation departments in the country, but not even these professionals can completely eradicate the threat of invasive trees by themselves. Preserving the thousands of spectacular Midwest conservation areas requires the utmost cooperation between wildlife officials and Missouri citizens, starting with the most important piece of the puzzle: homeowners.

As buds begin to break open this spring, be on the lookout for one of many detrimental invasive species that could pop up in your yard. Undesirable seeds can be carried from miles around, and could eventually end up in one of Missouri’s prized conservation areas where the MDC is involved with an expensive and never-ending battle against invasives that threaten the biodiversity of our state.

Callery Pear

The callery pear remains one of the most popular ornamental trees in Missouri despite the fact that they spread like wildfire. These highly tolerant plants take over and replace native varieties because they have no natural checks and balances within the ecosystem. Once thought to be sterile, callery pears actually crossbreed with similar varieties to create thorny, unattractive nuisances that require heavy tree maintenance.

Amur Maple and Norway Maple

The Amur and Norway maple is another set of invasive species that can thank unknowing homeowners for their devastating spread. Both are loved for their hardy nature and ornamental properties, but these trees are known as invasive in much of the Midwest. The Norway maple is especially malicious: these trees actually secrete a chemical that kills undergrowth, resulting in barren and muddy forest floors. Homeowners who plant these trees run the risk of pulling up new sprouts for years to come – the same can unfortunately be said for the entire neighborhood.

Missouri is truly blessed with a spectacular variety of native specie that should not be taken for granted. Most invasive species have not even documented yet: the public rarely recognizes them until a major outbreak has occurred, when it is already too late. Certified arborists and local service professionals should be able to identify and remove any “pest trees” on your property – a priceless step toward conserving Missouri wildlife.

Fighting the Good Fight: Eradicate Privet Naturally

Chinese Privet Hedge

The Chinese privet is one case where looks certainly are not everything! Although it is infamously invasive to the southeastern United States, many homeowners choose this species because of the rapid growth, dense foliage, and good looks.

Unfortunately, two out of three of these benefits end up biting the hand that feeds! Chinese privet certainly grows fast and with dense cover – which can quickly overcome a yard and eventually causes a nuisance to the entire neighborhood.

Removal and eradication are known to be all but impossible: it requires dedication, patience, and plenty of manpower. Because this species is exotic to the southeast, there are no pests or plants to keep growth in check.

Beating Back the Bush

The removal process for Chinese privet begins the same as any other shrub: all branches and shoots are to be pruned and removed, with only enough of the stump left to make for a good handle. While some homeowners prefer to chop a few cuts into the stump and apply chemical herbicides, this cannot always be accomplished in sensitive ecosystems or near other valuable plants and trees.

These rough cuts can still be left behind to encourage pests and rot to infect, and eventually kill, the stump. Otherwise, manual removal can be accomplished with standard garden tools, but every piece of root must be removed to prevent new sections from growing. Be aware the privet is still vulnerable to crown root rot – play this card to your advantage!

(Almost) Never-Ending Upkeep

The berries of the invasive Chinese privet carry very little value in terms of nutrition, causing hungry birds to consume more than necessary. These unwitting carriers can spread these seeds for miles! New sprouts will pop up periodically, and must be removed as soon as possible. We have heard of homeowners fighting the privet battle for more than thirty years this way! That’s why many people choose to call in a tree service professional! But if you’re dedicated, privet eradication is possible on a do-it-yourself basis!

Remember that Chinese privet is incredibly fond of disturbed soil: that means that the site of a removed privet stump is just perfect for new shoots! Keep an eye out for any new “volunteers”. If the site of removal is close to established trees, gardens, or building structures consider taking advantage of a local tree care professional to assess the options available.

Choosing the Right Maple Tree Species

A red maple in spring

Maple trees are a wildly popular and prolific species, treasured by sightseers and nature enthusiasts everywhere. Those who grew up in the Midwest can remember the fun seed pods that turn into “helicopters” when thrown into the air - just one of the few free pleasures left to youth. But not every maple is created equal; the decision of which maple species to plant at home takes time and research to make.

Unique Maple Benefits

Depending on the desired location and traits, some maples serve several purposes quite well. Striped maple or moosewood stands up to shade well, growing only up to about 33 tall – making this the perfect species of tree to grow under power lines in certain cases with careful tree maintenance. Red maples make a great ornamental tree, especially as the blazing fall colors begin to develop. These native beauties can grow up to 75 feet tall and provide ample shade.

Avoid Undesirable Traits

Sometimes it can be difficult to spot the weakness of a tree for all the benefits and beauty the same species may contain. For example, the striped maple species mentioned above has plenty of distinguishing features: one of which is soft bark that can buckle under ice or strain. While this may be fine in temperate climates, it certainly will not do well in others. The Norway maple is one species that should be avoided in many areas despite the good traits: these maples are one of many invasive species that are difficult to contain once planted!

How can a landowner ensure they are planting a beneficial species of maple tree, instead of one that could be potentially harmful? Consulting with a certified arborist or tree service professional can take some of the guesswork out of tree planting – and the effort may save precious time and money in the future!

Reducing, Using, and Removing Kudzu

Once referred to as the “King of the South”, kudzu has become more of a destructive tyrant. Introduced to Pennsylvania in 1976, this invasive vine was originally a gift from the Japanese government to commemorate the 100th birthday of the US. Hailed as a revolutionary erosion control method, this plant became a popular crop with support from the Soil Conservation Corps.

Despite the good intentions, kudzu has become an expensive burden to much of the southwestern United States. Practically invincible, it can take a homeowner up to ten years to eliminate these rapidly spreading vines – provided that surrounding property owners take the same measures!

If You Can’t Beat It – Eat It!

Although seen as a largely useless plant, kudzu is actually quite nutritious and considered a delicacy to areas that have not yet been overrun by smothering tendrils. Kudzu is actually a legume, and the roots, flowers, and young leaves can all be used to make some delicious treats. From blooming tea to crispy fried leaves – this plant is well worth culinary experimentation since it will not be going anywhere any time soon!

Making Killer Compost

Notorious for overtaking beautiful stands of native trees, running over carefully tended gardens like wild fire, and literally climbing up the walls of local homes – it may be surprising to find out that kudzu can be used for good instead of the evil it is so widely known for. Trimming back the vines is necessary for removal anyways, so why not remove the edible parts and compost the rest? If you have a chipper or shredder, this plant will make fine compost that can be used once your garden is finally free of this aggravating weed.

Professional Removal

If you’re tired of winning small battles and want to end the war – it may be time to finally give in and call a local tree service or kudzu removal professional. Any southern landscape service worth their salt have the tools, expertise, and trained eye necessary to rid your property of this invasive monster weed once and for all! Every day that the vines are allowed to grow is another chance for the Kudzu to throw down new roots – not a pretty prospect!

What You DIDN’T Know About the North Carolina State Tree

So you thought you knew your state trivia, huh? The longleaf pine has been a lasting testament to the strength, endurance, and rich history of North Carolina- standing tall over the state like proud monuments to lasting peace. Stands of these majestic trees cover much of the Southeastern United States paying tribute to the phrase “of the marsh” from which this pine’s scientific name of “pinus palustris” is derived. Besides the beauty and hardiness of this species what do we really know about this type of tree which once sustained our coast’s great navies? You may be surprised after contemplating these three facts that you most likely didn’t know about the history and nature of this special North Carolina tree.

1. The state tree is actually invasive to some parts of NC!

Before mainstream settlement of the Piedmont of North Carolina, the plateau was covered by a diverse forest consisting of various hardwoods including oaks, sycamores, and ashes. These trees were valued for their high value as lumber and were commercially cleared in vast amounts over generations. The longleaf pine had room to expand and have remained ever since. The climate of the region has actually changed because of this phenomenon: the area is now much more dry and arid because of the lack of hardwood forest canopy to create humidity!

2. The longleaf pine used to share the spotlight. 

Another surprising fact about the longleaf is that it was never originally the state tree. It shared the glory with an array of different pine species. In fact, the General Assembly of 1963 honored eight different types of pine equally. The loblolly, pitch, shortleaf, and pond are just a few examples of other indigenous trees that were part of this distinction. Each native species of pine carried it’s own role in turning North Carolina into the home of a very successful building industry and, more recently, a booming Christmas Tree producing state.

3. The longleaf pine now has TWICE the spotlight!

Did you know that the longleaf pine is also the state tree of Alabama? This species once covered over 90 million acres in the Southeastern United States but less than 3 million acres are currently thriving today. Similar to the state tree situation of NC, Alabama’s state legislature originally declared every pine to be equally important in the eyes of history. In 1997 the longleaf was specified, bringing it twice the attention! In my opinion, this species is formidable enough to be shared by countless states as an important icon of America’s industrial strength.

So whether you are a North Carolina or Alabama longleaf pine fan, be sure to give your special trees extra loving maintenance now that you know how truly unique they are. Each and every tree is important to a homeowner but any NC native has extra reason to take a second look at their unique state tree.

Beware -- Popular Species that are Actually Invasive!

The eastern United States is the perfect target for these attractive varieties of rapidly spreading and difficult to control plants. Every species on the following list are being willingly introduced by the hundreds of thousands each year to landscapes from Texas to North Carolina for their vigor and tasteful appearance, but many homeowners don’t realize their mistake until years later when the land clearing professionals must be called in. Being familiar with these harmless looking varieties can prevent your yard from being the next victim.  The expensive damage done to home landscaping is nothing compared to the invasion that is being suffered by millions of acres of prized Eastern forest. 

Chinese Privet 

The famous hardy hedges of Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia are an iconic and historical living monument for Bulldog fans, but outside of the stadium they are considered a weed that must be constantly and vigorously eradicated. These “shrubs” can become trees that can grow up to 20 feet tall, producing extremely hard to remove stumps. Since the fruit produced by these shrubs lack a significant amount of nutritional value for wildlife, birds tend to eat more than usually necessary which spreads these fast growing nuisances at an alarming rate. Regardless, they are increasingly popular in Georgia suburbs where garden-savvy neighbors have to take on the task of pulling up new sprouts every few days. 

Wisteria 

Exotic varieties of Wisteria are bought throughout the southeast, from Texas to North Carolina, where they proliferate much to the distress of these unknowing homeowners. These destructive beauties are known to “infest” trees, girdling them with thick vines and choking off growth. Quick spreading, any tiny bit of root system left behind is likely to sprout more the next growing season. In order to successfully maintain an exotic Wisteria vine, you must be able to mow around each side and heavily pruned in the fall. American wisteria is not as attractive but is a wonderful native substitute. 

Bradford Pear

Originally marketed as a sterile decorative tree, these short-term investments ended up being popular for lining streets and parkways. The years passed, and a tendency of the tree to self-destruct during high winds or snowfall quickly changed the minds of city planners. It was unfortunately much too late and the Bradford pear had already become a popular flowering tree for many residential landscapes. 

Many of the cultivars produced today are no longer sterile, and produce fruit which propagate the trees at a rate that is uncontrollable. You can find these ornamental pears spreading along ditches, and seedlings that infiltrate neighborhoods produce sprouts with thorny undesirable traits. Flowering dogwoods are a wonderful native variety if you don’t want to a tree removal service for one or more weather-destroyed Bradford Pears.