Asian bush honeysuckles (Lonicera species) are invasive shrubs found in many environments, including forests, fields, and roadsides. They spread quickly, outcompeting native plants for resources and harming local wildlife and ecosystems. In Kansas, they are common in the eastern third of the state.

According to the Kansas Forest Service, there are two main ways to control bush honeysuckle: mechanical and chemical methods. Mechanical removal involves cutting or pulling the plants. It’s effective in small areas, but large infestations may require heavy equipment. The plants can regrow easily, so full removal is needed to prevent this.

Chemical treatments, such as spraying glyphosate or applying triclopyr, are often used alongside mechanical methods, especially for large areas. It’s best to spray in late fall when native plants are dormant and honeysuckle is still green. A newer method, using backpack mist blowers to apply glyphosate, is cost-effective and efficient, allowing large areas to be treated quickly with minimal impact on other plants. This method is best used in late fall, when honeysuckle is the only plant still active.