Can Kudzu cover paradise?

This is NOT in Jasper, it is the Bent Tree Stables

The answer is YES it could, but some dedicated residents are trying to make sure that does not happen. If unattended long enough, all of Bent Tree certainly could become a sea of stilt grass, kudzu, beefsteak, privet, and a few other invasive plants growing around the occasional patch of mulch, mowed or weed whacked grass, or eroded bare earth.

Carol and Barbara strategize where to start

Richard maintains a 'Can Do' attitude

This weekend, some residents took the first steps to eradicate kudzu at the stables. Given that it is in a high value area of black willows, ironweed, and other desirable natives, it is not a straightforward exercise in spraying herbicide on the kudzu.

The vine had already grown so heavy in the tops of the willows that they were bowed almost to the ground. Leaving it to the winter did not seem prudent, as the willows could be broken or smothered in the meantime. So, we got after it and pulled most vines out of these trees.

We followed some vines and were able to locate and treat with herbicide at least some of the crowns. Really killing kudzu requires locating and killing the root system, and the crowns are the lifeblood of the root system. While we were there some invasive privet and paulownia trees were treated as well.

Now we wait to assess the impact of this work. It is certainly not a one time effort; it will require vigilance and additional work over the winter and the next few years to make sure that paradise is not smothered.

Several other suspected areas of kudzu were reported from concerned residents. Most turned out to be grapevines or greenbrier (Smilax). These native vines can easily be mistaken for kudzu from a distance. Besides the stables, the only other confirmed location of kudzu on Bent Tree property is near the front entrance on Bent Tree Drive. That will be addressed soon. If you are able to be part of this team to help preserve the diversity wildlife need and that we enjoy, email benttreelw@gmail.com.

Virginia admires a job well done!

Purple ironweed is blooming and the black willows (silax nigra) standing up, free of the heavy vines.

Thanks to DeEtta, Deacon and the Ranger for moving debris so it can be burned at the quarry.