Influence of Stem Cutting and Glyphosate Treatment of Lonicera maackii, an Exotic and Invasive Species, on Stem Regrowth and Native Species Richness

Lonicera maackii (Rupr.) Herder (Caprifoliaceae), Amur honeysuckle, is an exotic and invasive species in the United States that has quickly overtaken disturbed habitats in the eastern and midwestern United States, as well as in Ontario, Canada. A reduction of light due to its dense canopy, extended growing season compared to native species, and production of numerous basal sprouts allow L. maackii to outcompete its native counterparts. Eradication of this species can be difficult and time-consuming. This research was undertaken to identify how L. maackii influences species diversity and species re-establishment and to determine an efficient and effective eradication method. A study was designed to determine if L. maackii inhibited species diversity, if the removal of L. maackii would increase species diversity by reopening the canopy, and if mechanical removal or mechanical removal coupled with glyphosate treatment could be used effectively for its long-term eradication. It was found that L. maackii removal increased species diversity, and mechanical removal coupled with the application of glyphosate is an effective and relatively simple method for eradicating L. maackii, while mechanical stem removal alone simply delayed its growth.