Knowledgebase

Michigan weeds #757570

Asked June 21, 2021, 5:54 PM EDT

Wondering what this weed is and how to control its spreading? The roots are tuberous resembeling a ball of spaghetti and break off easily. We seem to have an Epidemic of these.

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

This weed is broadleaved helleborine (Epipactis helleborine). Broadleaf helleborine is a member of the Orchid family. If there is such a thing as a “weedy orchid,” then this is it. Broadleaf helleborine was introduced from Europe and is thought to be spreading in wooded areas throughout Michigan. It arises from a cluster of fibrous roots and/or rhizomes. Parallel-veined leaves are alternate, sessile and strongly clasp the stem. Flowers are produced in elongated, generally one-sided inflorescences. Flowers are greenish with a lavender tint. Plants are sparsely to densely hairy.  I have provided a link to an article we put out on this plant.  

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/homeowners_battling_a_weedy_orchid_invading_lawns_and_flowerbeds

Below are some control recommendations based on where the plants are located.  

ANYWHERE...

You can attempt to dig up the plants, but the problem it is nearly impossible to get all the root/rhizome system. If you decide to give that a try, the plants are at their weakest once they start to flower (which may not happen if you are mowing).

LAWN...

Spot treatment with an herbicide is probably the best option for a lawn. There is a product called Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns (active ingredient sulfentrazone) that I would recommend trying. This herbicide is geared towards killing monocot weeds, like broadleaf helleborine and wild garlic and wild onion, and tough to kill dicot weeds, like clover, but not cool-season turfgrass. I have used this in my lawn to kill broadleaf helleborine and star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum), which is another monocot weed. I have recently found it to be most effective if you spray it immediately after you mow, so the cut is still fresh. It may take multiple applications but be sure to give it a couple of weeks to fully work before determining if retreatment is necessary. This product is not appropriate to use in ornamental beds or vegetable gardens and should not be used in wet areas or areas that are sometimes wet (since you mentioned you live on the lake). As with any pesticide application, be sure to read and follow all labeled instructions to increase efficacy and minimize environmental and personal hazards.

ORNAMENTAL BED...

In an ornamental bed, controlling broadleaf helleborine is likely going to be tough without injuring other desirable plants, depending on their proximity. For a few plants, I would recommend cutting the plant to approximately 3-4" and immediately treating the cut surface with the broadspectrum herbicide glyphosate. To minimize movement of this herbicide I would consider painting it on the cut surface with a disposable foam brush or cotton swab while wearing gloves and any other personal protective equipment listed on the label.

When using products containing glyphosate there are a few important points to consider. First, as with any pesticide, remember to read and follow all labeled instructions. Second, glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide, meaning it will injure or kill other plants contacted during the application, so care is needed to avoid green plant material, exposed roots, and injured bark of desired plants. Third, glyphosate is relatively safe in the environment when used as labeled. It adsorbs strongly to the soil in most cases (i.e., clay and organic matter), allowing even sensitive crops to be planted shortly after application; meaning no carry-over issues are expected. Fourth, glyphosate alone can take up to 14 days to show full activity under ideal growing conditions. Retreatment of the area may be needed depending on the degree of infestation. Glyphosate is most effective for perennial control in the fall but can be applied anytime the plants are actively growing (temperatures consistently above 50F). Finally, be sure that the product you choose has only the active ingredient glyphosate or glyphosate + pelargonic acid. Products with additional active ingredients may have other unwanted effects and may delay the planting of other plants in the coming season(s).

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 22, 2021, 12:15 PM EDT

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