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Eliminating invasive and noxious weeds near a lake #714354

Asked August 17, 2020, 1:30 PM EDT

How can I eradicate this nasty vine, which I think is prickly greenbrier. We found this near the lake and an adjacent wetland area and need to get rid of it. Also, we’ve heard that a vinegar spray can eliminate poison ivy and maybe this plant too. Will that work? We don’t want to use glyphosate.

Ionia County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

Bristly greenbrier (Smilax tamnoides) is the prickly vine that you have in your area. I’m attaching an article from Clemson University about the weed and how to control it. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/smilax-greenbrier/

The article suggests control by glyphosate.  Read about the use of glyphosate by water to assess it’s effectiveness and affect on wildlife. https://dnr.wi.gov/lakes/plants/factsheets/GlyphosateFactsheet.pdf

It refers to glyphosate only.  Many new products that are sold are not pure glyphosate but a combination of chemicals which may have detrimental effects on other vegetation nearby. 

Bristly greenbrier can be killed by spraying with a solution of vinegar but may take several applications. Vinegar will also kill other vegetation that it comes into contact with. Bristly greenbrier can also be removed by hand, wearing a pair of sturdy gloves. 

I hope this helps you with your weed.

Thank you for contacting Ask an Expert.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 18, 2020, 1:15 PM EDT

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