Got Nature? Blog

Rooted in Research, USDA Forest Service: Non-native species are increasingly shaping forests across the eastern United States. While many introduced species coexist without major disruption, some become invasive: damaging ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and impacting the economic value forests provide. Over the past decade, the extent of forest land affected by invasive species has continued to grow, making management more complex and costly.

Hemlock woolly adelgid egg sacs on a hemlock branch.

Hemlock woolly adelgid egg sacs on a hemlock branch. Photo from Rooted in Research newsletter.

To address these challenges, the USDA Forest Service Research and Development team is hosting a six-part webinar series focused on invasive species in eastern forests. This series brings together leading scientists to share research-backed management strategies and explore the ecological and economic impacts of invasive species across the region.

These are virtual webinars that will be held on select Tuesdays and Thursdays in May. Each webinar will be ~60 minutes and start at 2:00 PM Eastern time. All events are open to anyone interested in forest health, conservation and management!

Here is the schedule for the upcoming webinars:

  1. May 5Invasive Species in Eastern Forests: Extent, Impact, and Response
  2. May 7Managing Invasive Plants: Understanding Rapid Adaptation and Strategies for Control 
  3. May 12Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: Protecting Hemlocks with Silviculture and Biocontrol 
  4. May 14Management Solutions for Emerald Ash Borer 
  5. May 19Tracking Spongy Moth Defoliations and the Economics of Slowing the Spread 
  6. May 21Emerging Threats: Asian Needle Ant and Beech Leaf Disease 

Participants must register for each webinar individually, visit to Research & Development Presents: Invasive Species in Eastern Forests learn more and sign up.

Forests play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, protecting water resources, and contributing to local and regional economies. As invasive species continue to spread, understanding how to manage and mitigate their impacts is more important than ever. This webinar series provides an opportunity to learn directly from experts working at the forefront of forest research.

To subscribe to the newsletter, visit Sign Up for Rooted in Research.

Learn and read more about the research done by the USDA Forest Service by exploring the Northern Research Station and Southern Research Station.

More Resources
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Investing in Indiana Woodlands, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Indiana Department of Natural Resources: Invasive Species
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Episode 11 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
What are invasive species and why should I care?, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store
New Hope for Fighting Ash Borer, Got Nature? Purdue Extension-FNR
Invasive Pest Species: Tools for Staging and Managing EAB in the Urban Forest, Got Nature?
Emerald Ash Borer, Purdue Extension-Entomology
Emerald Ash Borer Tools & Resources – Purdue Extension Entomology

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, Research & Development


The longer daylight period and the warming weather are bringing new life to woodlands. We have a community of native plants, called spring ephemerals, that grow, bloom and produce seed quickly before the tree leaves emerge and the forest understory is wrapped in shade. Several of my favorite wildflowers are in this group, including hepaticas, trilliums, bloodroot, squirrel-corn and trout lily.

honeysuckle2

Invasive Asian bush honeysuckle species in spring

honeysuckle

Invasive Asian bush honeysuckle species in spring

Some unwelcome invaders also emerge early in the spring, producing early foliage and an unnatural shade competing with our native plants. Several woody invasive plants have moved into our woodlands from ornamental and other plantings and now compete aggressively with our natives. These include Asian bush honeysuckles, privets, winged burning bush, and multiflora rose. These plants tend to produce foliage faster than most of our native trees and shrubs, proving them with a competitive advantage through a longer growing season. This early leaf emergence also provides us with an opportunity to identify these invaders in our woodlands. When walking out to observe the wildflowers or hunt for morels, keep your eyes open for the invasive plants. Small specimens can be pulled when soils are moist. Larger specimens may be cut and the stump treated with a herbicide to prevent sprouting. An easy and effective herbicide to access for landowners is glyphosate concentrate products mixed at a 50% ratio with water. Apply this mixture to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Read the herbicide label to understand the protective gear and application instructions required to apply safely.

If you have a large infestation that is beyond your capacity to control, consider contacting a local forester or other natural resources professional for advice on how best to deal with your invasive plant problem. You may contact the Indiana DNR Division of Forestry for advice from the District Forester.  Private-sector foresters and environmental groups along with contractors, may also be able to help you manage invasive species on your property. To find a private-sector forester visit www.findindianaforester.org.

You can find environmental groups and contractors, and additional information on invasives at the Indiana Invasive Species Council website. The State of Indiana Cooperative Invasive Species Management helps organize local resources to help landowners ID and effectively manage invasive species. Purdue Extension has many invasive species resource publications and videos that can help with identification and management.

Controlling invasive plants can bring a sense of satisfaction, knowing you are doing something to promote the health and sustainability of your property.

To view more Got Nature? posts on Invasive Species:
What are invasive species and why should I care?
Invasive Species: the Good News and the Bad News

Resources
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, video, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Indiana DNR Division of Forestry
Indiana Invasive Species Council
State of Indiana Cooperative Invasive Species Management
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMapS, Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
Invasive Plant Series: Winged Burning Bush, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Burning Bush Video, The Education Store
Question: What is the best management process with cut invasive brush tops?, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Control Management of Poison Hemlock, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry Woodland Owners Association (IFWOA)
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture

Lenny Farlee, Sustaining Hardwood Extension Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources


Posted on April 13th, 2026 in Invasive Plant Species, Urban Forestry | No Comments »

Break up with your Bradford pear (and other invasives)! Tippecanoe County Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting an Invasive Plant Swap open to residents of Tippecanoe County. Apply to swap up to 10 invasive trees or shrubs thanks to funding from Duke Energy. Ask your neighbor if you can help them swap an invasive plant for a native!

Poster for Invasive Plant Swap 2026.Approved applicants will receive a native tree or shrub at the Tippecanoe County Soil and Water Conservation District Native Tree & Shrub Sale in September. We do not currently have funds to help with the costs of removing the invasive tree. All participants will be responsible for removing their invasive tree, shrub, or grass, providing proof of removal in the form of before and after pictures, picking up their native replacement, and planting their native replacement.

Applicants with city trees will work with the City Forester from Lafayette or West Lafayette on their tree removal and replacement process. Up to 10 plants can be replaced. Replacements come in 3 gallon pots. Shrubs will be approximately 2-3 feet tall and trees will be approximately 4-5 feet tall.

Please email tictaboutinvasives@gmail.com for any questions or about a specific species you would like to replace.

The 2026 application period will close August 1, 2026. Once 200 replacements have been applied for, applications will no longer be accepted.

For further information and the application, visit the event page on the Tippecanoe County SWCD website.

Resources:
Invasive Species, Playlist
Invasive Plant Species Identification, Video
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Indiana Department of Natural Resources: Invasive Species
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
What are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) Blog
Report INvasive, Purdue Extension
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMapS, Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Episode 11 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
What Nurseries Need to Know About the Invasive Species Regulation, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store
ID That Tree – Video Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Tree Pruning Essentials Video, Purdue Extension YouTube Channel
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture

Tippecanoe County SWCD


Picture of poison hemlock from bugwood.org.

Photo by: Richard Old, XID Services, Inc., Bugwood.org.

Made infamous through the trial of Socrates, Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Macbeth, and several other works of classic literature, poison hemlock is an extremely toxic plant that will pose a risk this summer and should be handled with caution.

Poison hemlock is native to Europe. It is a biennial plant, meaning that it has a two-year lifespan. Last summer, it went through vegetative growth and largely stayed out of sight as a basal rosette. This summer, a long stem (up to 3 to 10 feet tall) will bolt and produce small white clusters of flowers. Poison hemlock is a member of the parsley family and can sometimes be confused with wild carrot. However, its distinguishing feature is its hairless hollow stalks with purple blotches.

The biggest risk with poison hemlock is ingestion. Lethal doses are fairly small, so it is important for animal owners or parents of young children to identify it in their area and remove it if possible. The toxins can also be absorbed through the skin and lungs, so be sure to wear gloves and a mask when handling these plants.

Symptoms of hemlock poisoning include dilation of the pupils, weakening or slowing pulse, blue coloration around the mouth and eventually paralysis of the central nervous system and muscles leading to death. Quick treatment can reverse the effects, so act quickly.

Close-up of poison hemlock plantIt is considered highly invasive and is listed on both Indiana’s noxious weed list and the terrestrial invasive plant rule list, Indiana General Assembly IC 14-24-12, IC 15-15, IC 15-16-7 to 10, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Terrestrial Invasive Species – Plants. Thus, its occurrence may have legal implications for landowners. Some Indiana counties aggressively monitor and spray poison hemlock, particularly along county roads. It primarily invades disturbed and early succession sites such as roadsides, stream and ditch banks, vacant lots, and field borders. However, it can spread into pastures, hay fields, and other grassland habitats.

Its sap contains alkaloid toxins which are highly toxic to humans and animals. Although humans would not normally purposely or accidentally ingest poison hemlock (Socrates was a notable exception), care should be taken when mowing or cutting to avoid dermal and respiratory inhalation exposure. Livestock farmers should control poison hemlock in pastures, feed lots and holding pens and ensure it is not baled in hay.

Poison hemlock spreads via seed, so effective management must prevent new seed production, prevent spread of existing seed, and exhaust the existing seed supply in the soil seed bank.

Poison hemlock seed is often inadvertently spread by mowing, road maintenance or agricultural equipment. Mow infested areas along roadsides, ditch banks and field edges before seed develops. A single mowing may delay but  not stop poison hemlock from growing another shoot and ultimately flowering and producing seed. Multiple mowings are likely required to prevent new seed production.

Closer view of poison hemlock leaves and stalk.Herbicide control should focus on the first-year basal rosette. Herbicide control can still be achieved in the early stages of flower stem development. However, as the flower stem grows so grows the amount of herbicide required to provide full coverage and thus full control.  A 2% solution of glyphosate (41% active ingredient) in water with a non-ionic surfactant will provide good control of poison hemlock basal rosettes. If the poison hemlock is growing among desirable grasses, broadleaf-specific herbicides such as triclopyr and 2,4-D are also very effective on poison hemlock and will not harm the grasses. AS always, read the pesticide label for proper, safe handling and use.

For more information see Purdue Cooperative Extension Invasive Plant Fact Sheet Series FNR-437-W, Poison Hemlock.  For further guidance on poison hemlock control, contact your county Purdue Cooperative Extension office.

Resources:
Noxious and Invasive Weeds and the Weed Laws in Indiana, Purdue Extension – Botany & Plant Pathology
Be Careful Around Highly Toxic Poison Hemlock Plant This Summer, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Poison Hemlock, Pest & Crop Newsletter, Purdue Extension – Entomology
Pest & Crop Newsletter, Purdue Extension
Recognizing and Managing Poison Hemlock, Purdue Landscape Report
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: Distribution Update, Purdue Landscape Report
Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Woodland Management Moment: Invasive Species Control Process, Video, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
What are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Report INvasive, Purdue Extension & Indiana Invasive Species Council
Purdue Pest and Plant Diagnostic Lab

Ron Rathfon, Regional Extension Forester, Southern Indiana Purdue Agriculture Center (SIPAC)
Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources


Purdue Extension Impact Report 2025Purdue Extension is proud to share the 2025 Impact Report, a showcase of the people, programs, and partnerships driving stronger, more resilient communities across Indiana. This year’s report highlights how research from Purdue’s College of Agriculture is being put into action, from addressing the spread of tar spot in corn, to monitoring invasive species, to supporting farmers navigating concerns around Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu).

Here is a quick snapshot of the great articles and information you will find:

  • Saving One of Indiana’s Top Crops From Tar Spots
  • 4-H Tech Changemakers Lead the Way in AI
  • Teaching Small Steps to Achieve Healthier Lives
  • Strengthening Financial Security Through Tax Preparation and Education
  • Uniting Indiana Residents Against Invasive Species
    Highlighting Lenny Farlee, Extension forester, and Henry Quesada, professor and assistant director of Extension. Check out all of our FNR resources listed below. 
  • Supporting Childcare Providers to Create Stronger Communities
  • Emergency Preparedness and Response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Flu
  • Making the Best Better: Strengthening Teen Leadership Skills
  • Check out program impacts

Explore the full report to see how Extension is making a difference statewide and beyond: Purdue Extension Impact Report 2025.

Resources:
What are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) Blog
Woodland Management Moment: Invasive Species Control Process, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Burning Bush, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Callery Pear, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Multiflora Rose, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Invasive Plants Threaten Our Forests Part 1: Invasive Plant Species Identification
Aquatic Invasive Species, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG)
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMaps – Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
1-866 No EXOTIC (1-866-663-9684)
depp@dnr.IN.gov – Email Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Subscribe to Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Community Development, Purdue Extension

Purdue Extension


Posted on December 8th, 2025 in Forestry, Invasive Plant Species, Wildlife | No Comments »

First page of the Reed Canarygrass Control publicationUncover the challenges posed by reed canarygrass, an invasive perennial grass that threatens conservation plantings, wetlands and low-lying areas. This guide details control options for reed canarygrass. Essential for conservationists and land managers dedicated to preserving native ecosystems: Reed Canarygrass Control.

Check out the Managing Conservation Plantings Series which include details on how to control invasive species and other problematic plants in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings and native warm-season grass and wildflower conservation plantings.

Publications in this series include:

Resources:
Deer Impact Toolbox & Grassland Management, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Pond and Wildlife Management, Purdue Extension
Forestry for the Birds Virtual Tour and Pocket Guide, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Frost Seeding to Establish Wildlife Food Plots and Native Grass and Forb Plantings – Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Tips for Evaluating a First Year Native Grass and Forb Plantings, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Drone Seeding Native Grasses and Forbs: Project Overview & Drone Setup, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Ask an Expert: Wildlife Food Plots, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Handling Harvested Game: Episode 1, Field Dressing, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching Unit 1: Animal Diversity and Tracking, The Education Store
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Subscribe Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Jarred Brooke, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources


Posted on December 1st, 2025 in Forestry, Invasive Plant Species, Wildlife | No Comments »

First page of Teasel Control publication.Discover how to manage non-native cool-season grasses like tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass in native conservation plantings. This guide reveals how these invasive species form dense sod layers, which limits wildlife mobility, and also provides control options for these invasive species. Controlling Introduced Cool-Season Grasses is essential for anyone dedicated to preserving native ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity.

Check out the Managing Conservation Plantings Series which include details on how to control invasive species and other problematic plants in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings and native warm-season grass and wildflower conservation plantings.

Publications in this series include:

Resources:
Deer Impact Toolbox & Grassland Management, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Pond and Wildlife Management, Purdue Extension
Forestry for the Birds Virtual Tour and Pocket Guide, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Frost Seeding to Establish Wildlife Food Plots and Native Grass and Forb Plantings – Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Tips for Evaluating a First Year Native Grass and Forb Plantings, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Drone Seeding Native Grasses and Forbs: Project Overview & Drone Setup, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Ask an Expert: Wildlife Food Plots, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Handling Harvested Game: Episode 1, Field Dressing, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching Unit 1: Animal Diversity and Tracking, The Education Store
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Subscribe Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Jarred Brooke, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources


Posted on November 24th, 2025 in Forestry, Invasive Plant Species, Wildlife | No Comments »

First page of Teasel Control publication.Discover how to effectively manage the invasive common and cut-leaved teasel, which threatens open areas like prairies, savannas, sedge meadows, roadsides and conservation plantings. This publication provides essential information for exploring effective control options. Essential reading for conservationists and land managers interested in grassland ecosystems: Teasel Control (Common and Cut Leaved).

Check out the Managing Conservation Plantings Series which include details on how to control invasive species and other problematic plants in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings and native warm-season grass and wildflower conservation plantings.

Publications in this series include:

Resources:
Deer Impact Toolbox & Grassland Management, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Pond and Wildlife Management, Purdue Extension
Forestry for the Birds Virtual Tour and Pocket Guide, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Frost Seeding to Establish Wildlife Food Plots and Native Grass and Forb Plantings – Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Tips for Evaluating a First Year Native Grass and Forb Plantings, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Drone Seeding Native Grasses and Forbs: Project Overview & Drone Setup, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Ask an Expert: Wildlife Food Plots, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Handling Harvested Game: Episode 1, Field Dressing, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching Unit 1: Animal Diversity and Tracking, The Education Store
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Subscribe Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Jarred Brooke, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources


Posted on November 17th, 2025 in Forestry, Invasive Plant Species, Wildlife | No Comments »

First page of Crownvetch, Sweetclover and Birdsfoot Trefoil Control publicationDiscover the impact of non-native legumes like crownvetch, sweetclover, and birdsfoot trefoil on grasslands and conservation plantings. This guide provides control options for these non-native legumes. Essential reading for conservationists and land managers interested in grassland ecosystems: Crownvetch, Sweetclover and Birdsfoot Trefoil Control.

Check out the Managing Conservation Plantings Series which include details on how to control invasive species and other problematic plants in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) plantings and native warm-season grass and wildflower conservation plantings.

Publications in this series include:

Resources:
Deer Impact Toolbox & Grassland Management, Purdue Extension Pond and Wildlife Management
Pond and Wildlife Management, Purdue Extension
Forestry for the Birds Virtual Tour and Pocket Guide, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Frost Seeding to Establish Wildlife Food Plots and Native Grass and Forb Plantings – Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Wildlife Habitat Hint: Tips for Evaluating a First Year Native Grass and Forb Plantings, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Drone Seeding Native Grasses and Forbs: Project Overview & Drone Setup, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Ask an Expert: Wildlife Food Plots, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Handling Harvested Game: Episode 1, Field Dressing, video, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Managing Your Woods for White-Tailed Deer, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
A Template for Your Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube channel
Nature of Teaching Unit 1: Animal Diversity and Tracking, The Education Store
Nature of Teaching, Purdue College of Agriculture
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Subscribe Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Jarred Brooke, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Purdue Department of Forestry and Natural Resources


Posted on October 30th, 2025 in Forestry, How To, Invasive Plant Species, Woodlands | No Comments »

In early November, invasive bush honeysuckle is one of the only understory shrubs that are still green. While many of our native plants are dormant, Asian bush honeysuckle remains green longer making them easy to locate. Doing control measures this time of year also reduces impacts to non-target plants.

How do you control it? That depends on what resources you have available. Small plants can be easily pulled by hand; be sure to hang them on tree branch rather than laying them down on the ground so they don’t re-root. In most cases, some method of herbicide control will be necessary. Ohio State University has a good guide on various methods of control, Controlling Non-Native Invasive Plants in Ohio Forests: Bush Honeysuckle.

Not sure where to start on your property? One of the most daunting aspects of invasive plant control is where to begin. Ellen Jacquart, former Director of Stewardship for the Nature Conservancy in Indiana, wrote an article in the Indiana Woodland Steward. The Where do I Start?! Prioritizing Invasive Plant Control article describes how to plan your invasive plant control including prioritizing what to do first.

Click on the photos below for larger view to help as you identify Asian bush honeysuckle.
Invasive Asian bush honeysuckle in forest.Invasive Asian bush honeysuckle growing under trees in forest.Invasive Asian bush honeysuckle in late summer with berries.Asian bush honeysuckle leaves and berries in late fall.

Resources:
Subscribe to the Indiana Woodland Steward Newsletter
Consider Fall Eradication of Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Landscape Report
Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Extension YouTube Video
A Woodland Moment: Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Video
Invasive Plants of the Eastern U.S.: An Introduction to the Problematic Non-Native Species, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Report Invasive Species, Purdue Invasive Species
Report Invasive Species: Asian Bush Honeysuckle, Purdue Invasive Species
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMaps – Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
Episode 11 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
What Are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?, Purdue Extension-FNR Got Nature? Blog
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
Aquatic Invasive Species, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG)
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Subscribe Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Brian MacGowan​, Wildlife Extension Specialist
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University


Got Nature?

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