Invasive plants in Illinois: Identifying solutions
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By Andrew Holsinger, horticulture educator, Illinois Extension
Invasive plants have become an increasing concern in Illinois, prompting continued monitoring and early detection as critical steps to prevent spread pathways of new emerging invasive species. These management strategies, referred to as Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) have resulted in the prevention of spread of invasive species at their initial stages of invasion in some areas. To effectively prevent future invasive species outbreaks it is essential to train and educate landowners, volunteers, and local agencies on identification and control of invasive plants.
Land use changes such as urbanization, agriculture, and land development disrupt natural habitats allowing invasive species opportunity to establish themselves. Many have also seen accidental introductions such as Callery pear become increasingly spread throughout the state. Weather changes like warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can help invasive plants thrive while stressing native species.
What other practices contribute to invasive plant issues? While restoration is not a new concept and has been used for decades, lack of these practices and inadequate management of landscapes has contributed to the problem of invasive plants. Addressing invasive species early can significantly reduce the management costs.
Mastering Invasive Plant Control: Strategies and Techniques
Invasive plants pose a significant threat to local ecosystems, agriculture, and even residential gardens. The following strategies and techniques will aid in invasive plant control.
Mechanical control for small infestations can be effective for small infestations. Hand-pulling or using tools to pry and remove the entire root system ensures the prevention of regrowth. Additionally, cutting and girdling are effective for some woody species allows for application of herbicides to prevent regrowth on these perennial plants. Mowing is also an important tool when done regularly to help control herbaceous invasives. It is essential to mow before the plants set seed to prevent spreading and dispersing seeds.
Chemical control is accomplished in a choice of application methods always following the manufacturer’s instructions according to the label. Foliar spray is effective for large infestations, but care is needed to avoid contact with desirable plants. Basal bark treatment is effective with species with thin bark, applying herbicide to the lower bark of young trees and shrubs.
Cultural Control has become of increasing interest in recent years. Proper soil management to improve soil health and utilization of mulch to create conditions less favorable for invasive species are becoming more popular. Promote the use of native plants. Aggressive native plants that can establish quickly can fill areas and outcompete invasive plants.
For the latest on invasive plants consider attending the 2025 Illinois Invasive Species Symposium on May 28 in Champaign. A full agenda and registration are available at go.illinois.edu/InvasiveSymposium. Sign up by May 22. The cost is $20 and includes lunch.
For more information, read more about invasive species in Illinois at extension.illinois.edu/invasives. or contact a local Extension office.
About Extension
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state’s land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.
