Here’s how to get rid of invasive honeysuckle!

Most avid gardeners in the St. Louis area know that Bush Honeysuckle (Lonicera Maackii), is a problematic invasive species. With increased awareness about this problematic pest plant, we’re sharing some of the best ways any property owner can work to get rid of Bush Honeysuckle. 

Honeysuckle Removal & Control

Invasive bush honeysuckle can be removed any time of the year in St. Louis. However, we recommend early spring and late fall, because it has leaves when our native shrubs and trees don’t. This helps to be able to identify these plants, for easier removal. You can work to remove honeysuckle off of your own property or volunteer for a local Honeysuckle Sweep event, with many opportunities available in fall at places like Shaw Nature Reserve, Forest Park, Katy Trail and more. Find an event near you, or check out our Facebook page as we share events!

There are several effective methods for removing Invasive Honeysuckle. Most commonly, removal is performed by cutting the plant stem as close to the ground as possible, then applying an appropriate herbicide to the cut stem. It’s important to keep in mind that any and all stems that are left without a herbicide treatment will quickly resprout. This method is recommended over digging up the entire plant, because digging up large bush honeysuckle plants can cause damage to other plants and increase soil erosion.

Our landscaping team continuously removes invasive honeysuckle from client properties and we are proud of our efforts in providing environmentally conscious landscaping services to homeowners and businesses who might not have the time or manpower to remove extensive amounts of bush honeysuckle from their property on their own. If you have an area that needs professional help with honeysuckle removal, let us know! We would be happy to help, including providing volunteers for community projects get rid of this invasive pest plant.