Mechanical Control

For small patches, hand-pull seedlings and young plants when the soil is moist, holding low on the stem to remove the whole plant along with its roots. Monitor frequently and remove any new plants. For large patches, repeated mowing combined with herbicide application is effective. Burning removes above ground vegetation but does not kill the underground rhizomes, which will continue to sprout.

Chemical Control

For effective control with herbicides, healthy green leaves must be present at application time and temperatures must be sufficient for plant activity. Several systemic herbicides (e.g., glyphosate and triclopyr) move through the plant to the roots when applied to the leaves or stems and have been effective on Japanese honeysuckle. Treatment in the fall, when many non-target plants are going dormant, is best. Repeat applications may be needed.

• Be careful not to damage or kill nearby native plants when conducting management work.
• Always read and follow pesticide label directions. Application of pesticides may require a certification from the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. The Agency website provides information on what applicator certification is needed.