Buckthorn is only 1 example of a growing problem… Now is the time to call NCS about all invasive shrubs & invasive species control, discounted this winter!
invasive shrubs are difficult to eradicate due to their prolific seed production and aggressive growth habits. Common invasive shrubs include multiflora rose, autumn olive, Japanese barberry, shrub honeysuckle, privet, and burning bush 1. Here are some control measures that you can consider:
Mechanical control: This involves physically removing the shrubs by pulling, digging, cutting, mowing, or shading. This method is best suited for small infestations 2.
Chemical control: This involves using herbicides to kill the shrubs. Herbicides can be applied as foliar sprays, basal bark treatments, or cut-stump treatments. It is important to follow the label instructions carefully when using herbicides 1.
Follow-up!!!
Native revegetation - follow up foliar sprays with reseeding using native prairie plants, you might find the following resources helpful:
Prairie Nursery provides a comprehensive guide to establishing a native prairie seed mix. The guide covers everything from preparing the site to post-planting maintenance 1.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides a guide to restoring degraded grassland to conservation prairie. The guide includes information on how to spray non-selective herbicides, complete a diverse dormant seeding, and control weeds 2.