4 Invasive Species You Can Identify Even in the Winter!

Winter is one of the most effective times to treat many of our worst invasive plants, but it takes a keen eye to find and recognize them without leaves, flowers, or berries. With a little bit of practice, though, you can take advantage of the many benefits to managing invasive trees, shrubs, and vines in the Winter.

Why should I manage in Winter?

Managing invasive species in the winter offers several advantages. During this time, many invasive plants and animals are in a dormant or inactive state, making them more susceptible to control methods such as removal, chemical treatments, or physical barriers. Cold temperatures can also reduce the likelihood of native species being harmed during the intervention, allowing for more targeted and effective management without disrupting the local ecosystem. Additionally, winter typically brings fewer pests and less vegetation, making it easier to access and monitor affected areas. Finally, Winter management can also reduce the spread of invasive seeds in the spring, when they are more active and likely to propagate. To learn more about removal techniques email us at [email protected] or call our office (317) 773-2181.

Primary Winter Targets

Asian Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.)

Asian Bush Honeysuckles have a characteristically hollow stem which can be seen by cutting or breaking a branch.

Asian Bush Honeysuckle stays green in late Fall and early Winter after native plants have lost their leaves.

Asian Bush Honeysuckle's iconic streaked bark, curved trunk, and multi-stem growth habit make it stand out from native trees and shrubs.

Winter Creeper (Euonymus fortunei)

Winter Creeper's bright green leaves stand out against the brown leaves of an otherwise dormant forest.

Mature vines climb trees before branching out further, making some trees look like they still have their leaf cover.

Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus)

Burning Bush's bright red fall foliage makes it stand out even over longer distances

Bright green streaks can be seen even on more mature stems in the winter.

These prominent corky ridges combined with green bark on newer growth branches help differentiate burning bush from other shrubs

Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima​)

This heart-shaped leaf scar is a prominent identifying feature on Tree-of-Heaven in the Winter.

Light brown clusters of seeds that strongly resemble seeds found on a Maple tree adorn Tree-of-Heaven branches into the winter.

Bright grey fissures help identify the trunk of a mature Tree-of-Heaven